Sea Dream Chronicle: Old Shanghai in the Eyes of a Foreign Painter

Author: (Austrian) Kamin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: Here, it seems that every crevice of the Shikumen doors hides a series of thrilling stories; in every hall of the old-style buildings, grand dramas have once unfolded; and on the weathered walls of a tiny dwelling in some alley, one might accidentally step on the remnants of a once-raging upheaval or the golden splendor of past dynasties that lingered for years in solitude. These paintings allow us to vividly experience the charm of "Old Shanghai" as it once was, with its unique life, customs, and illusory glamour. Through them, we can savor the laughter and clamor of bygone days; or trace the scars and bloodshed of the past; or point out to our grandchildren the "grandma in her youth"; or a mix of all these.
This book is a historical 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 during that era—from the bustling streets, diverse human experiences, and alleyways to the refugees, beggars, and neighborhood women. Under the artist's hand, all are captured vividly, with an exhaustive portrayal of reality. With the masterful technique of a true artist, he brings to life a Shanghai that was both vibrant with song and dance, prosperous, yet also impoverished, backward, and oppressed. These paintings possess immense power and emotional resonance, further enhanced by engaging background texts and concise, refined captions. This book combines artistic charm with reference value for creative inspiration. Whether for general readers or professionals, it is a timeless classic worth treasuring.
(Note: The original text contains repeated sections, which have been consolidated in the translation for conciseness.)