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Satirical Prints of Suzhou Customs

蘇州風俗諷刺畫

1760

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign

(1736–95)
Medium
Woodblock print; ink on paper
Measurements
35.7 x 54.1 cm (14 1/16 x 21 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 2025.64
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

Woodblock printing in color reached a height in China in the 1600s to 1700s. The prints were executed by means of sets of separate blocks, each carved to print a different color.

Description

In the 1600s, printing flourished in such Jiangnan cities as Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Huizhou, evolving from privately enjoyed illustrated books printed in color to more commercialized single-sheet color prints that were hung on walls and became part of the rich urban visual culture.
A horizontal woodblock print in black ink depicts a bustling assembly of figures with human and animal features. At the upper right, a crowned figure sits behind a draped table. To the left, multi-armed beings gather around a low table. In the foreground, an archer aims at a target while others beat drums, hoist a large banner, and push a wheeled cart. Numerous Chinese inscriptions are scattered throughout the lively scene.

Satirical Prints of Suzhou Customs

1760

China, Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong reign (1736–95)

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