Canton. Two Mandarins of the First Class, or Blue Button

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Canton. Two Mandarins of the First Class, or Blue Button

Pierre Joseph Rossier. Views in China issued by Negretti and Zambra in 1859 and 1861. First Series and second series. These important images were the first commercial views of China to be sold in the west. Date: 1858-1861

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Media ID 32263956

© Classic Photographics / Mary Evans Picture Library

1858 1861 1859 1861 Button Canton Commercial Important Issued Mandarins Negretti Orient Pierre Rossier Sold Zambra

EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, hailing from the Classic Photographics Collection on Mary Evans Prints Online, transports us back to the bustling port city of Canton, China during the mid-19th century. The image depicts two Mandarins of the First Class, or Blue Button Mandarins, as they were esteemed in the Eastern world. The Mandarins, Pierre Joseph Rossier's masterful subjects, are shown in a serene and regal setting, dressed in their traditional robes adorned with the coveted blue buttons signifying their high rank. This photograph is a significant historical artifact, as it was one of the earliest visual records of China to be disseminated in the Western world. It was produced by the renowned firm of Negretti and Zambra, who issued the views in 1859 and 1861 as part of their First and Second Series. These images marked a pivotal moment in the documentation of China for the European audience, providing a glimpse into the rich culture and customs of the Orient that were previously shrouded in mystery. The Mandarins' stoic expressions and formal attire convey the grandeur and importance of their roles within the Chinese bureaucracy. Their presence in this photograph serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Chinese culture and the intrigue it held for the Western world during this period of increased interaction and exploration. This photograph offers a unique and valuable window into the past, allowing us to appreciate the historical significance of these two esteemed figures and the broader cultural exchange between the East and the West during the 19th century.

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