Artwork

Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop

Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop, by Jun Wu, paint, 1880
Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop, by Jun Wu, paint, 1880

Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop is a paint painting by the Chinese Orthodox School artist Jun Wu. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop is a painting from an album documenting the silk industry in 19th-century China. The work is part of a larger collection that explores various aspects of the silk trade.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts workers unloading bundles of silk at a merchant's shop, capturing a moment of everyday commerce. The scene is characterized by its attention to detail, conveying the vibrancy of daily life in the silk trade.

Technique & Style

The artist's focus on realistic representation is evident in the rendering of workers' attire and the shop's architectural features, such as wooden beams. This attention to detail lends a sense of authenticity to the scene.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of an album that is also held in part by the Victoria and Albert Museum, indicating its significance within a broader collection related to the silk industry.

Silk Stored in Warehouse
Silk Stored in Warehouse, Jun Wu

Artist & collection

Artist

Jun Wu

Jun Wu’s paintings show women tending silkworms and preparing silk in the late 1800s.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop?

Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop was painted by Jun Wu in 1880.

Where can I see Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop?

Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop?

Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop is associated with Chinese Orthodox School.

Can I buy a print of Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop?

Museum-quality prints of Unloading at Silk Merchant's Shop are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.