Description
Photograph, 'Female artist', black and white, silver gelatin print, by Hedda Morrison, Peking, China, 1933-1946. This image is of a female artist standing before a table in her studio. A large Chinese landscape painting hangs behind her. She wears a cheongsam and is standing with both hands placed on the table looking into the camera. On the table, in front of her to her left (right of frame), is a brush pot, brush washer and porcelain dish for mixing colours.

Significance statement
Calligraphy and brush and ink painting have historically been regarded as the highest of Chinese arts. Writing and painting make use of the same materials - brush and ink. Painting therefore has a strong connection wth the written word, with scholarship and with erudition. This is one of a number of photographs that Hedda Morrison took of Peking artists in their studios and living environments.

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.

Credit line
Gift of Mr Alastair Morrison, 1992

Registration number
92/1414-251