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Performers

c. 1870
photographer

attributed to Lai Fong (Afong Studio)

(Chinese, c. 1839–1890)
Culture
China, Qing dynasty (1644-1911)
Medium
Albumen print
Measurements
Image: 22.9 x 17.6 cm (9 x 6 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 2026.72
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

Lai Fong was the preeminent Chinese photographer of the 19th century.

Description

Lai was a talented photographer and shrewd businessman who operated a studio in Hong Kong called Afong Studio. He competed successfully with British and European competitors, perhaps because, as he advertised, his catalogue of views of China were “larger, choicer, and more complete…than any other in the Empire.” He provided an insider’s look at the modernization and other changes brought to China by trade and war with Western nations.
A vertically oriented albumen print depicts a woman and man with light skin tones seated in an interior. On the left, a woman wears an elaborate headpiece with circular ornaments and curved feathers. To her right, a man wears a dark cap with wide, flat protrusions and garments featuring dense, face-like embroidery. A table stands between them as both figures look toward us.

Performers

c. 1870

Lai Fong (Afong Studio)

(Chinese, c. 1839–1890)
China, Qing dynasty (1644-1911)

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