Shops and Street, Chinese City of Pekin, October 1860 1860

Felice Beato's "Shops and Street, Chinese City of Pekin, October 1860" is a striking photographic portrayal of a bustling street scene in Beijing. Taken during the Second Opium War, this salted paper print captures the intricate architectural details of Chinese shops, showcasing traditional wooden structures with decorative latticework and ornate rooflines. The photograph provides a glimpse into the everyday life of a Chinese city during a pivotal moment in history. Its stark contrasts and detailed composition offer a unique window into the cultural and architectural richness of 19th-century China.