Artwork
The treatment, (From a Chinese painting) signed by M. Rapine
The treatment, (From a Chinese painting) signed by M. Rapine is an unspecified painting by Fratelli Treves Editori. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Promoter Digital Gallery. The treatment, signed by M.
About this work
Overview
The treatment, signed by M. Rapine, is an engraving depicting a 19th-century Chinese healing scene. Originally part of the illustrated travel book 'Viaggio in Cina', it shows a person receiving a treatment on a table while two observers stand by.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving captures a traditional Chinese medical practice, with a healer applying a technique (possibly cupping) to a patient. Two onlookers witness the procedure, highlighting the social or communal aspect of such treatments in the era.
Technique & Style
Executed as an engraving, the work mimics the appearance of a painting through skilled printmaking. For insight into the engraving process, compare with works by Fratelli Treves Editori, a notable publisher of engravings.
History & Provenance
Featured in 'Viaggio in Cina', a book illustrated with 167 engravings, this piece is attributed to M. Rapine. The book itself was authored by Scottish photographer John Thomson (under the correct spelling, despite the book's misprint) and French diplomat Gabriel Devéria (writing as T. Choutzé).
Context
Created in the 19th century, 'The treatment' reflects the cultural and medical practices of China during that time, as observed and recorded by Western travellers and scholars.
Legacy
As part of 'Viaggio in Cina', the engraving contributed to Western audiences' understanding and visualization of 19th-century Chinese life and customs, though its individual impact beyond the book is not notably distinguished.
Artist & collection
Artist
This was a Milanese publisher with a knack for turning imported curios into local hits.
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