Posted By: Bill H
Posted Date: Jun 14, 2013 (04:25 AM)
Just an observation: Without a date, signature or seal there is very little in evidence to distinguish your paintings as Ming. Stylistically they treat the depiction of children being taught by their grandfather in much the same manner as Qianjiang-school porcelain painter Fang Tinghui (方廷辉) does the same theme on this square tray. The scene is iconic, reflecting a common and timeless Confucian theme that can be found repeated in Chinese art throughout various dynasties.
The tray's inscription reads down from the top right as "Riches, honors, long life" (富貴壽考 - Fu gui shou kao), "Season of Renchen mid-Summer" (時壬辰夏令仲 - Shi renchen xia ling[?] zhong), and Fang Tinghui's signature and seal on the next line. In the context of Fang's career, which began during the Guangxu reign, the cyclical date of renchen fell in 1892. I'd be inclined to say your paintings also were done in the late 19th century or somewhat later.
Best regards,
Bill H.
