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The enigma of Spoilum and the origins of China trade portraiture.

From: The Magazine Antiques  |  Date: 3/1/1998  |  Author: Conner, Patrick

Chinese artist Spolium's portraits are characterized by eyebrow raises and lip purses. His works are depicted by oblique body angles and expressions that appeal to Western audiences. Spolium's name is hypothesized to be directly related to his family name.

With his firm jaw and clear gaze John Watts (Pl. II) has the kind of face that might inspire pride in any descendant. His gilt buttons are polished and his naval collar is impeccably rigid, while his flyaway hair might suggest that ...

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