A Suite of Twelve Framed Chinese Export Paintings Sunqua (Chinese, active 1830-1870), Qing Dynasty

Each depicting butterflies, beetles, and other insects on pith paper, sold together with the original portfolio, with 'SUNQUA' label to interior. (13).

(H: 5 1/2, W: 8 1/2 in. (sight); H: 11 3/4, W: 14 1/2 in. (frame))

Provenance

Collection of Theodore Francis Green, former Senator to Rhode Island, by repute.
F. Bealey American Antiques, Essex, Connecticut.
Private Collection, Pennsylvania.

Condition report:

All with light to moderate signs of aging, including light creasing, warping, smalls stains (possibly spots of water damage), punctures, light pitting, very small tears, and abrasions to surface, commensurate with the delicacy of support. Of note: one with tear approximately 1 in. long near middle; one with some spots of brown staining and some small tears near middle; one with 1-1/4 in tear at edge and loss to one corner (approx. 1 x 1/2 in.). None examined outside of frame. Frames modern and all in very good condition, some with screw holes from previous hanging, some chips to painted and gilt surfaces at edges and corners. The portfolio with signs of age: creases, pitting, and discoloration to endpapers; the exterior covered in silk in fair condition, with losses and fraying at edges, corner, and binding.