J W Giles Collection

2nd Life Guards Relieving Guard, 1844 (1909). Artist: James William Giles
2nd Life Guards Relieving Guard, 1844 (1909). After Henry Martens (c1790-1868). From British Military Prints, by Ralph Nevill. [The Connoisseur, London, 1909]

The present Emperor of China when a young man, saving his fathers life... c1796-1804, (1847). Artist: JW Giles
The present Emperor of China when a young man, saving his fathers life during an insurrection, c1796-1804, (1847). The Daoguang Emperor (1782-1850) protecting his father the Jiaqing Emperor

Approach of the Emperor of China, to receive the British ambassador, 1847. Artist: JW Giles
Approach of the Emperor of China, to receive the British ambassador, 1847. Drawn by B Clayton, from a painting by W Alexander

The ceremonies observed in every province and city of China, on the occasion of an eclipse, 1847. Artist: JW Giles
The ceremonies observed in every province and city of China, on the occasion of an eclipse, 1847. Drawn by G F Sargent, from a painting by Fo Shang

The Emperor Weit-Soong and his court, taken prisoners by the Tartars, 1847. Artist: JW Giles
The Emperor Weit-Soong and his court, taken prisoners by the Tartars, (1847). Episode from Chinese history. Drawn by B Clayton, from a painting by Fo Shang

Burning of the Chinese books, 3rd century BC, (1847). Artist: JW Giles
Burning of the Chinese books, by order of the emperor who built the Great Wall, 3rd century BC, (1847). Drawn by B Clayton, from a painting by Fo Shang

The empress and her attendants proceeding to the temple from the mulberry grove, 1847. Artist: JW Giles
The empress and her attendants proceeding to the temple from the mulberry grove, 1847. Chinese empress and retinue. Drawn by B Clayton, from a painting by Fo Shang

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J. W. Giles: Capturing the Essence of China's Rich History Step into the vibrant world of 19th-century China through the captivating artworks of James William Giles, a talented artist known for his intricate and detailed depictions. From military scenes to cultural ceremonies, Giles masterfully brings to life various aspects of Chinese society during this transformative era. In "2nd Life Guards Relieving Guard, " painted in 1844 but not released until 1909, Giles transports us to a British military outpost where soldiers change shifts with precision and discipline. The meticulous brushstrokes showcase his attention to detail, capturing every button and buckle on their uniforms. "Ningbo" and "Amoy, " both created in 1847, reveal two bustling ports opened by treaty to British commerce. Through Giles' skilled hand, we witness the vibrant trade activities that took place as ships from around the world docked at these strategic locations. The hustle and bustle of merchants bartering goods is palpable in every stroke. Giles also takes us on a journey along Whampoa near Canton – an anchorage teeming with European shipping activity – showcasing his ability to capture grand seascapes with remarkable accuracy. In "The English factories at Canton, " he delves deeper into Chinese culture by depicting Europeans living within traditional Chinese architecture – a testament to cultural exchange during this period. One cannot overlook Giles' fascination with historical events either. In "The present Emperor of China when a young man, saving his father's life. . C1796-1804, " he immortalizes an act of heroism that shaped China's future ruler. Another masterpiece titled "Approach of the Emperor of China, to receive the British ambassador" offers insight into diplomatic relations between East and West during this time. "The ceremonies observed in every province and city of China on the occasion of an eclipse" showcases Giles' ability to capture large-scale events while highlighting local customs and traditions.