Sea Dream Chronicle - Old Shanghai in the Pen of a Foreign Painter

Author: (Austrian) Schiffr, (Austrian) Kaminisky, translated and compiled by Qian Dingping
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-19
Features: Here, it seems that every crevice of the Shikumen doors hides a story of thrilling and moving tales; in every hall of the old-style buildings, there have once been grand and dramatic performances; and on the weathered walls of a small, cramped dwelling in some alley, one might accidentally step on the remnants of a once-raging upheaval or the lingering splendor of past dynasties that had long been neglected. These paintings allow us to vividly experience the charm of "Old Shanghai" as it once was, with its unique life, customs, and fleeting illusions. Through these, we can savor the joyful laughter and clamor of the past; or trace the scars and bloodshed of old wounds; or point out to our grandchildren the "grandma in her youth"; or a mix of all these.
This book is a historical panorama of China and Shanghai in the first half of the 20th century, as well as an artistic encyclopedia of the social tapestry of that time. The artist's brush delves into every aspect of the lives of ordinary Chinese people in that era—from the bustling streets and alleys to the hardships faced by refugees and the downtrodden, from the humble laborers to the neighborhood gossips. Under the artist's hand, all are depicted with vivid realism, capturing the essence of life in that time.
With masterful technique, the artist portrays a Shanghai that was both vibrant with song and dance and prosperous, yet also poor, backward, and subjected to oppression. These paintings possess immense emotional impact and resonance. The engaging background texts and concise, elegant captions further enhance their appeal.
This book combines artistic charm with reference value for creative inspiration. Whether for general readers or professionals, it is a timeless classic worth preserving.