Description
Black and white photograph showing a man in a brocade robe, vest and skull cap inspecting antiques at an open air stall. A tree stands behind him and the roof of a building can be seen in the background to the left.

Significance statement
New Year markets began in the early Qing dynasty (1644-1911), and were held from the first to the 15th of the first lunar month. At their busiest there were more than 1000 stalls. Going to the New Year market was an important pastime in Old Peking. The New Year markets ceased trading in 1964 but resumed in 2001.

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
92/1414-290