Beijing Old Streets: Chinese-English Colorful Picture Book (Paperback)

Author: Haoli
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: The "origin" of this collection of pencil and watercolor paintings dates back to the early 1950s, when I worked as a stage designer at the Beijing People's Art Theater. It was created out of the need for materials and experiences gathered from the streets and alleys during that time. As time passed and circumstances changed, my longing for the past grew stronger. To preserve some traces of bygone years and to recreate the appearance of the old capital in memory, I spent over a decade gradually completing more than 100 pencil and watercolor paintings. I certainly don’t dare to hope that these scattered images can fully represent the old Beijing—it falls far short of that. I merely wanted to give myself an account. Perhaps, this can also be considered an account for history.
The architecture of old Beijing was mostly of brick and wood. Whether it was the city walls, shop facades, gate towers, or courtyard residences, it all reflected the traditional style of Chinese architecture, creating a tranquil and serene living atmosphere. On the streets at that time, there were few vehicles. In addition to the public transport trams, cars were rarely seen, with bicycles and pedicabs being the most common sights.