Chinese Early Republic-Era Paper Album Erotic Scenes (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 220)

$321.25

East Asia, China, Republic era, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. Painted erotic scenes on twelve concertina-style folding paper panels form a continuous sequence of intimate vignettes, executed in opaque watercolor and ink with linework and soft, muted washes. Chinese character captions appear on most panels, with further inscriptions on the verso that add narrative or playful commentary. Some men are depicted in Western-style suits and one in a gray military “Mao suit.” Mounted in a clear acrylic case for display and protection. Size of paper: 41.5″ L x 7″ W (105.4 cm x 17.8 cm); acrylic case: 46.5″ L x 11.5″ W x 2″ H (118.1 cm x 29.2 cm x 5.1 cm)

Provenance: private Rogers, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Bosio collection, Miami, Florida, USA, 1960-2000

Condition: Water stains and discoloration. Creases and small tears, with loss to the upper corner on the end panel. Paintings are vibrant and graphic. Mounted to an acrylic panel and displayed in a modern acrylic case.