Description
Black and white photograph showing a man squatting outside with an array of metalware spread on the ground in front of him, and furniture, such as chairs, behind him. In the background are buildings and two more men who are also selling goods.

Significance statement
Located in the Western part of the Chinese city, Tianqio, or Heaven's Bridge, was a poor area, in the past frequented by beggars, but in Hedda Morrison's day the site of a bustling market with teahouses and street entertainers including contortionists and acrobats. Hedda Morrison, wrote in 'A photographer in Old Peking' (p. 122): 'T'ien Ch'iao market was a permanent outdoor market to the west of Ch'ien Men Street and not far from the Altar of Heaven. Here could be bought all kinds of second-hand goods for the home'.

Production notes
This is one of a large number of photographs that were taken by Hedda Morrison (1908-1991) during her years of residence in Peking (Beijing), China 1933-1946.

History notes
Exhibited in 'An Asian experience: 1933-67, organised by the Asian Studies Association of Australia, Fisher Library Foyer, University of Sydney, 12-30 May 1986. Reproduced in Hedda Morrison, 'A photographer in Old Peking', Hong Kong, Oxford and New York: Oxford University Press, 1985, p. 122, with the caption: 'T'ien Ch'iao market was a permanent outdoor market to the west of Ch'ien Men Street and not far from the Altar of Heaven. Here could be bought all kinds of second-hand goods for the home'.

Credit line
Gift of Mr Alastair Morrison, 1992

Registration number
92/1414-200