Posted By: Bill H
Posted Date: May 27, 2009 (12:54 AM)
I'm not certain there's any reliable way to authenticate the paintings except to take it for granted that they are typical stylistically of late 19th-early 20th century China trade paintings, which often showed everyday activities and people.
I've included a URL that'll get you to a listing with similar paintings at trocadero.com. The trocadero home has a search feature that you can use to find other trade paintings, and perhaps piece together some appreciation of what yours are all about.
Just keep in mind that even though a lot of this art is presented as 19th century, it ain't necessarily so. Here's a trade painting of the ascension of the young Xuantong Emperor (1909-11). When I replaced its original rickety frame, I found the back stuffed with pages from a 1933 Chinese newspaper. Considering the good condition of the pith, I tend to believe the painting was new when first framed.
Good luck,
Bill H.
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