Canton. View taken from the Walls on the West Side

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Canton. View taken from the Walls on the West Side

Pierre Joseph Rossier. Views in China issued by Negretti and Zambra in 1859 and 1861. First Series and second series. These important images were the first commercial views of China to be sold in the west. Date: 1858-1861

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Media ID 32263996

© Classic Photographics / Mary Evans Picture Library

1858 1861 1859 1861 Canton Commercial Important Issued Negretti Orient Pierre Rossier Sold Walls Zambra

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning photograph, taken by Pierre Joseph Rossier and published by Negretti and Zambra in the late 1850s, offers a captivating view of Canton (Guangzhou) from the western walls. The image is part of the first series of views of China produced by Negretti and Zambra, which marked a significant milestone as the first commercial views of China to be sold in the Western world. The photograph showcases the bustling port city of Canton, with its intricate network of waterways and dense urban landscape. The eastern part of the city, where European traders and diplomats resided, is visible in the foreground, characterized by European-style buildings and ships anchored in the harbor. The Chinese quarters, with their distinct architecture and vibrant markets, can be seen in the background, extending towards the hills. The walls on the western side of the city, a crucial defensive structure during the Qing Dynasty, provide a natural frame for the image. The walls, with their imposing gates and watchtowers, symbolize the cultural and political divide between the East and the West during this period. Rossier's masterful composition and attention to detail bring the scene to life, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Canton during the late 19th century. This photograph is a testament to the power of photography to transport us to another time and place, and to deepen our understanding of the world around us.

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