Chinese street theatre Possibly 1779 - 1788

"Chinese Street Theatre" is a watercolor drawing by Jan Brandes, dated possibly between 1779 and 1788. The artwork depicts a scene of a Chinese theatrical performance, with actors and musicians performing on a stage, as well as spectators gathered around. This drawing offers a glimpse into the cultural life of China in the late 18th century, and the artist's fascination with the foreign and the exotic. Brandes was a Dutch painter and draftsman, known for his detailed and accurate representations of the East. He was a member of the Dutch East India Company and traveled extensively in Asia, documenting the people, cultures, and landscapes he encountered.