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Early 20th-century Chinese painting on silk
This early 20th-century Chinese painting on silk, laid down on medium cardboard, depicts a lively scene set before a nomadic tent. Three figures animate the composition: a central man in a green robe and feathered headdress stands confidently, while an older bearded man in red and a blue-robed attendant engage nearby, adding movement and narrative depth. The work combines expressive gestures with finely rendered details of costume and setting, reflecting a traditional Chinese interest in character and storytelling.
This painting comes from the private collection of Mr. J. Bahamonde, who over a period of 20 years acquired his collection from various prestigious dealers and has now decided to downsize his beloved collection.
CHSOS Collection – item #7
Technical Photography
Technical Photography: focus on Reflected Ultraviolet (UVR) imaging.
The strength of technical photography lies in its ability to capture a wide range of images, where only a few may uncover crucial insights. In this case study of an early 20th-century Chinese painting on silk, the UVR image proves the most revealing. The white pigment used to highlight certain contours strongly reflects UV light and therefore appears bright in the UVR photograph. As a result, previously invisible details become visible.

Scientific Art Examination – Resources:
Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) – USA
The British Museum – Scientific Research Department – UK
Scientific Research Department – The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA
C2RMF (Centre de Recherche et de Restauration des Musées de France) – France
Rijksmuseum – Science Department – Netherlands







