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Dunn, Nathan,
TEN THOUSAND THINGS
RELATING TO
CHINA
AND THE
CHINESE;
An Epitome
OF THE GENIUS, GOVERNMENT, HISTORY, LITERATURE, AGRICULTURE, ARTS,
TRADE, MANNERS, CUSTOMS, AND SOCIAL LIFE OF THE PEOPLE
OF THE
CELESTIAL EMPIRE,
TOGETHER WITH
A Synopsis of the Chinese Collection.
BY
WILLIAM B. LANGDON, Esq.
CURATOR OF THE CHINESE COLLECTION.
LONDON;
TO BE HAD ONLY AT THE COLLECTION, HYDE PARK CORNER.
1842.
DS
7714
•D29
18.4.2
LONDON:
G. M'KEWAN, PRINTER, 9, GREAT WINCHESTER STREET, CITY.
18-42/665
ADVERTISEMENT.
The present crisis of affairs in China has awakened in the public mind
a deep and powerful feeling of enquiry towards this singular and secluded
people.
The particular object with which the following pages are so im-
mediately associated, proving beyond all other means, a useful and
pleasing medium of conveying the information sought for; and the
copious remarks contained in former Catalogues of the Chinese Collec-
tion having been so favorably received by the public, (of which, upwards
of 65,000 copies have been sold,) the author has been induced to increase
the size of the present volume by the addition of much original matter,
together with information obtained by an abridgement of the latest and
best authorities.
The object desired in the present publication is to present to the
reader, and the visitor of the Collection, the greatest amount of know-
ledge in the smallest possible space.
Chinese Collection,
Hyde Park Corner,
Dec. 2nd, 1842.
WILLIAM B. LANGDON.
ILLUSTRATIONS.
No.
1
Taou Kwang, the Emperor of China.
2
Chinese Temple and Colossal Buddha Idols
page.
3 Mandarins paying an official visit to a superior.
4 A soldier exercising with a double sword
28
33
43
5
A party of Literati
46
6 A Group of Chinese Ladies
7 A Chinese Beau paying court
64
70
8
A Fortune Teller....
79
9 Fighting Crickets
83
•
10
Itinerant Shoemaker and Blacksmith.
86
11
Incense vessel and stand
117
12 Antique Vase from Nankin.
119
•
13 Chinese Boats
12+
14
A Silk Mercer's and China-Ware Shop..
131
15
State Chair…..
143
•
16 A Carpenter.
161
17
Chinese Lantern
189
18
A Writer of Proverbs
194
19 Hatching Duck Eggs by artificial heat
201
20
A Calenderer of Cotton Goods
205
21
Ornamental Furniture
221
22 Bridge at Honan..
240
23
Furniture of a Chinese Bed Room....
241
24
The Great Wall of China...
245
CONTENTS.
PAGE 26.
Introduction-General view of the Interior of the Saloon-Superb Chinese Screen-
Chinese Temple and Colossal Buddha Idols, with incense vessels, furniture, offer-
ings, &c.-The Buddhist's creed-their hell and torments described.-The God
Fŭh, his birth, creed, and death. The paradise of Fuh described-Kwan-yin,
the goddess of mercy.-Teen-hwa Shin-moo, the sacred mother.-Tae-shin, the
Chinese Pluto.-The Priests of Fuh-their mode of worship.-Debtor and creditor
account in religion.
1
PAGE 33.
Mandarin of the first class and his Secretary.-Mandarin of the second class.-
Mandarin of the sixth class.-Two massive arm chairs, covered with crimson
drapery, richly embroidered.-Square table, handsomely carved, with marble top.
Specimens of crimson drapery, elegantly embroidered, hanging in front of the
table.-Cap stands and various ornamental articles.-Chinese maxims on the
wall.-A mandarin of distinction giving audience to inferiors.-Ceremonies ob-
served-dresses described-distinctive ball on the cap regulated by rank.-Mili-
tary officers-their insignia of office-Nobility of China-hereditary and official.
The nine ranks.-Titles sometimes purchased.-Persons eligible to office in China.
Parental character of the Government." The book of Sacred instruction.".
Authority of parents over their children.-Disobedience of children recognized by
the laws of China.
PAGE 37.
Priest of Fuh or Buddha, in full Canonicals.-Priest of the Taou sect, in full dress.-
Gentleman in mourning apparel.-Servant of the above, also in mourning
dress.-Chinese soldier with matchlock.Archer of the Imperial Army of the
X
CONTENTS.
Tartar Tribe.-Circular Chinese shield, made of rattan.-Various military weapons
on the wall.-The Taou, or rational religion-Laou-keun-tsze, the Epicurus of
China-his tenets.-Doctors of reason.-Confucius-the state of religion.-Tem-
ples dedicated to him-sacrifices offered to his memory. .-"The four Books"-
The three religions of China.-Idolatry in China compared with that of India.-
Curious account of Our Saviour taken from Chinese history-Mourning apparel-
and customs observed.-Chinese soldier-arms-" The army of Heaven"-its
numbers-the pay and allowance of the soldiery-punishment of military officers.
-Tartar archer-his equipments-archery-costume, and its faults.
PAGE 46.
Three Literary gentlemen in summer costume.--Servant handing a book.-Mandarin
of the fourth class.-Servant.-A pair of Chinese book-cases.-Silk scrolls on
the wall.-A Chinese translation of Æsop's fables. -Tobacco and mode of taking
snuff.-Library and book-case.-Education in China-the sciences-ancient sys-
tem of instruction.-Examination of students at Pekin-distinction conferred on
talent-instruction, chiefly political.-Authors-their numerous works.-Chinese
poetry, written 3,000 years ago.-Interesting Chinese tale, illustrative of the
principles of mutual friendship and fidelity.-Absence of arms in civilians.
PAGE 64.
Three Chinese ladies of rank.-Two female domestics.-Mother and boy of the middle
class.-Daughter of the above.-Chinese table handsomely carved, gilt, and
painted. Specimen of citron, or finger fruit.—(Citrus Sacodactylus.)-Superbly
embroidered silk screen.-Lanterns suspended from the ceiling.-Becoming dress
of the Chinese females.-The "Golden water lilies."-Characteristic employment
-The use of tea, and mode of making.-Low estimation of females in China.-
Female infanticide.-Standard of beauty among the Chinese fair.-The origin of
the practice of compressing the feet.-Chinese courtship.-Distinctive marks
between married and single women.-Accomplishment of the higher circles.
PAGE 73.
Tragedian in splendid costume.-Two juvenile actors, to perform the part of female
characters.-Chinese juggler.-Splendidly embroidered Parasol used on state oc-
casions.-Magnificent specimen of embroidered tapestry, and numerous specimens
CONTENTS.
xi
of theatrical caps on the wall.-Costume of the Chinese stage.-Theatrical exhi-
bitions.-Popular works of the Chinese drama.—Females excluded from the stage.
-want of scenery.—Juggling.-Fortune-tellers.-Public holidays.-Chinese New
Year's day. Rites described.-Feast of Lanterns.-Ceremony of "Meeting
day.-Rites
Spring" described.-Agricultural feasts.-Dragon boats.-Gaming.-Fighting
crickets. Kite-flying.-Amusements of the Emperor and court on the ice, at
Pekin.-Inactive habits of the Chinese.
PAGE 86.
Itinerant barber at his avocation, with his whole apparatus-their numbers..
Shampooing.-Itinerant shoemaker, at his work, with work-bench, basket, tools,
lamp, &c.-Travelling blacksmith, with anvil, furnace, bellows, &c.-Chinese
boatwoman, carrying a child on her back in the usual mode.-Another boat-
woman, with pipe,
with pipe, mother of the above.-Several specimens of bamboo hats
and rush coats on the wall, worn by the lower classes in rainy weather.-
Specimens of ploughs, harrows, axes, hoes, rakes, forks, shovels, spades, flails,
mattocks, &c. &c. implements for the most part, simple and rude, chiefly of
wood, merely shod with iron.-Fishing nets, made of a peculiar kind of hemp,
fishing scoops.—Chinese mode of repairing broken cast iron vessels.--Cylindrical
bellows. Prevention of drowning in infants.-Bamboo-its uses.-Rush garments
of the poor.—Agriculture extreme economy of the soil.-Shin-nung "the divine
husbandman."-The Emperor is the patron of agriculture.-Dearth of 1832-
the Emperor's prayer on that occasion.-Rice-its cultivation-and remission of
duties on shipping laden with grain.-The plough sometimes drawn by men.
-The Buffalo used in farming-Scarcity of pasture.-Little flesh eaten.-
Pastoral habits of the Tartars, Fishermen, &c.
PAGE 99.
A Chinese gentleman in a sedan, borne by two servants.-Servant in attendance with
lantern, &c.-Narrow limits of the streets in Canton.-Wheel carriages seldom
used. The number of Sedan bearers restricted to the rank of the occupier.-The
of the sedan denied to foreigners.-Etiquette observed in formal visits.
-A complimentary or veledictory card-its dimensions indicative of its purport.
use
xii
CONTENTS.
PAGE 101.
An interior apartment in a Chinese Pavilion.-Mode of paying and receiving visits.-
Furniture.-Embroidered lanterns.-Large Porcelain jars-Singular carved oval
door-way.-Chinese salutation.-Ceremony of the Ko-tow.-Favorable testimony
to the character of the Chinese.-Description of a Chinese dinner party.-
Gastronomic taste of the natives.-Tsew-hing, or hot wine.-Tea indispensable
on all occasions. Similarity of features in the Chinese.-The origin of the
imposition of the cue by the Tartar Emperors.-Phrenology.
PAGE 109.
Lacquered ware of China.-Ancient mirror used prior to the introduction of glass.-
Singular property of-
Cabinet from Soo-chow.-Hand furnaces.-No gloves worn in China.-Compass
and sun dial.-Division of time by the Chinese.-No clocks of their own
manufacture.-Model of a Chinese coffin, and description of it.-Singular notion
respecting its possession. -"The Eternal Mansion"-Swan-pan, or calculating
board, description of.-Model of a Chinese bridge, constructed as a footway.
PAGE 116.
Miscellaneous articles.-Distorted roots of trees. -The love of the Chinese for the
grotesque.-Mythological emblem of the Dragon and the moon.-Cause of eclipse
of that luminary.-Watchman's rattle.-Splendid cameo, presented by Howqua.
-Ingenious wooden bellows-construction described.
Specimens of ancient and modern Porcelain.-Three figures emblematical of the three
felicities.-The supposed property of ancient vases.-Flower jars in the form of
the Pe-tsae.
PAGE 120.
Ancient and modern Porcelain.-Porcelain landmarks, ancient use of Porcelain
Tower at Nankin described. —Grotesque porcelain vase, (336.)—Account of the
origin of porcelain manufacture in China.-Division of labour.- Encouragement
of the art by the Emperors discontinued.—Origin of its name.
CONTENTS.
xiii
PAGE 124.
Chinese boats.-The "Ta," or pagoda, near Whampoa.-A Chinese "Grand
Chop," or port clearance.-A San-pan described.-River population, a distinct
race.-Singular form of marriage among these people.-Wheel carriages little
used.-Revenue cutters.-Immense variety of boats used-their skilful man-
agement.—Ancient rite performed on their rivers.-Government grain vessels
their numbers.—“ The Red Declaration, account of.-Imperial Edict for the
protection of shipwrecked foreigners.-Pagodas of China.
PAGE 129.
Chinese summer residences.-A domestic shrine, with gilt idols.-Tablets on the
wall.-Dwellings of the Chinese described-their resemblance to the remains of
Roman habitations at Pompeii.
A china-ware shop as seen in Canton, completely furnished.
PAGE 131.
A silk mercer's establishment-the proprietor behind the counter making calculations
on his counting board.-Clerk entering goods.-Purchasers in front of the
counter, examining a piece of black silk.-A Chinese gentleman smoking.—
A servant preparing breakfast.-Another servant looking through the screen or
summer door.—Circular table, with breakfast furniture.—A blind beggar at the
door asking alms.--Description of a mercantile establishment in China.-Early
habits of the Chinese.-Their talents as business men.-Banking.-Pawnbrokers.
-Sycee silver. -Silver mines. -Food. Singular taste.-Vegetables. - Ex-
peditious cooking.-Public ordinaries.—Cheap dinners.-Bakers and pastry-
cooks.-Distilled spirits.-Beverages always warm.-Tea, its general use, and
immense consumption.
PAGE 137.
A large flower boat.—Bridge at Fa-tee.-Double-handed swords.-Tobacco and opium
pipes.-Sporting implements, &c.-Model of a machine for raising water.—
Opium Smoking.— Memorial to the Emperor for its abolishment. Bridge
building. Chinese Gunpowder.-Government monopoly of military stores.-Lob
Creek pagoda.-Chinese bricks.-Water wheel.-Contrivance for irrigating lands.
1
xiv
CONTENTS,
PAGE 142.
A model of a Chinese war-junk in ivory.-A pair of state chairs, footstools, &c.-
Superbly painted and gilt lanterns.-Junks-from what derived, and description
of
Chinese ornithology.
A superbly embroidered lantern, of large dimensions.-The dragon an emblem of
royalty.-Fans, their general use.-Chinese cannon, taken at Chusan, descrip-
tion of-
PAGE 145.
Ornithology continued.-Mandarin duck, remarkable anecdote of.-Application of the
word" Mandarin."
Ornithology continued.-The classification of birds by Chinese authors.
Specimens of Conchology from the Chinese seas.
Silver ware.-Enamel-carvings in ivory.-Wine-its early introduction into China.
-Fabulus unicorn.-Ancient " Cup of Alliance.”—Spherical ivory ball--their test
of truth.
PAGE 150.
Numerous articles of vertû.-Wine cups.-Mode of drinking health.-The eighteen
disciples of Buddha.-The national seal.-Kangs, their use, and introduction by
the Tartars.
Numerous small articles of fine porcelain.-Tea pots of singular construction.-Fine
teas in China, and high prices given.-General use of earthenware vessels.
Articles of vertû.-Ancient and modern coins of China.-Spells and Talismans.-
Credulity of the Common people.
PAGE 156.
Small articles of fine porcelain continued.
Specimens of silk, cotton and grass-cloth manufacture for domestic use.
Musical instruments-their construction, and imperfect knowledge of the science.
Tools, their general dissimilarity to European.
Numerous specimens of the finny tribe.
Cutlery, castings, &c.
CONTENTS.
XV
Chinese books, &c.-Process of Stereotyping.-No printing presses in China.-Mode
of Printing.-Mistaken notion of their punishments.-An Imperial author, Yen.
-The "Le-ke," or Book of Rites and Ceremonies.
PAGE 166.
The process of dwarfing fruit trees described.-Edible bird's nests.-Fruits.-To-
bacco.-Rice used medicinally.-Tea used as a circulating medium in Tartary.-
Paper made of the bamboo-its manufacture." The four precious imple-
ments” of a Chinese scholar.-Card of invitation.-Importance of fine writing.-
Congratulatory letter.-Chinese Pharmacology.-Low state of medical science.-
Vaccination.-Summary punishment of Empirics.-Their imperfect knowledge of
Anatomy.
PAGE 174.
Summer and winter caps, and shoes of various kinds.
Numerous small porcelain articles described.
Articles of vertû.-" Chop sticks."-Superstitious belief in charms.-Imperial purses.
-The ribands of the monarch.
General use of betel nut as a masticatory-mode of preparation.-Tobacco extensively
used.—Jade stone.-Brushes, novel make of.-Chinese playing cards.—Origin
of the word Coolie.
Fine carving, specimen of.-Ancient bronze idols.-Joo-ee, or sceptre of Jade stone-
its value and use described.
PAGE 185.
Ornithology continued.-The crane, an emblem of longevity.-The knowledge of Zoo-
logy by the Chinese, very limited.
Ornamental candles.-The manufacture of tinsel figures, &c. for religious rites.
Embroidery principally performed by men.-Few woollen manufactures.
Ornithology continued.
Model of Pagoda, &c.
Numerous specimens of insects and butterflies.
Various specimens of the finny tribe from the waters of China.
xvi
CONTENTS.
PAGE 189.
Chinese lanterns-their construction and national partiality.--Lamp oil in common
use.
The maxims of the Chinese sages.-Confucius highly venerated.-Mencius.-Ancient
mode of writing.-The Aphorisms of the Chinese philosophers, compared with
the Proverbs of Solomon.
Paintings.-General Remarks on the Fine Arts.-Black Tea culture.-The Bohca
hills-the name whence derived.-Hatching silk worms, and process of rearing—
management described.-The high priest of Buddha.
PAGE 201.
Imperial canal-its construction and extent.-Sluices.-Absence of locks.-Paintings
on rice paper.-Duck boats, and management of water fowls.-Rice paper,-
how prepared.-Native maps.-Geography not regarded by the Chinese.-Des-
cription of the City of Canton.-Tradesmen and mechanics.-Population of Can-
ton.-Vigilance of the police.-Prison discipline.-Execution of criminals.-The
Feast of Lanterns annually observed.-Lanterns of singular devices. Fire
works.
PAGE 208.
Taou-kwang" Reason's glory,"-his character, and person.-The succession to the
throne at the disposal of the monarch.-Incident in the reign of Kca-king.-
Government despatches.-No public post in China.-Conveyance of letters by
private carriers.-Colours indicative of rank, virtue, feelings, &c.-Golden
Island.-Yang-tsze Keang, the "Son of the Sea."-The largest river in China.
-The Hwang-ho.
PAGE 212.
The "Dragon's seat.". -The preservation of animal life regarded by the Buddhist
sect.-Tartar warrior and lady.-Whampoa Reach and village.—Public granaries.
-Liberal policy of the government in times of scarcity.-Inundation of lands.
-Account of the deluge.-Yu, the Chinese Noah. - Funeral procession.-
Mourning.-Ceremony of " buying water."-Interment.-Superstitious feeling
as regards death.-Living persons formerly interred with the deccased.-The
tombs of the Chinese-Sacrificial prayer offered at the tomb of an ancestor,
CONTENTS.
xvii
PAGE 220.
Ficus Religiosa, drawings on its leaves.-Chinese floriculture.-Consoo-house.
Narrative of the French ship Navigateur.-The empress a patroness of silk weaving.—
The temple at Honan described.-Priests at worship-. The legend of “the temple
of a thousand autums."-Singular growth of the citron.-General remarks on
the growth and cultivation of the tea plant.-Viceroy of Canton and retinue.
Typhoons, and thunder storms.-Superstitious notions entertained of death by
lightning.
PAGE 235.
Marriage, the ceremony described.—The seven grounds of divorce.-Superstitions as
regards lucky days for the ceremony.-Concubines.-Advertising for husbands.—
Sons are esteemed more than daughters. The Bocca Tigris.-Chinese fort.-
Chinese furniture.-Bedsteads.-Great Wall of China described. A Tartar
General and suite.-Village of Honan.-River life in China.-The Fa-tee gar-
dens.-Pekin.-The nine gates of the city.—Artificial lakes.-Golden carp.-
Macao described.-Toleration of the Portuguese.-Lintin.-Portrait of a cele-
brated Chinese beauty.-Money-brokers in Canton.-Money of the Chinese.-
Ancient circulating medium.-Paper money.-Spanish dollars preferred.—Leases.
—“ Shoe-money," singular custom of.
PAGE 249.
The Hall of Audience at Pekin described.-The Emperor of China borne by sixteen
officers. Annual military review.-Soldiers allowed to pursue some other occu-
pation.-Grotesque shields.-Theatrical representation by moonlight.—Windows.
-Glass seldom used.-Topographical history of the City of Cauton.-Names by
which Canton was known, upwards of 4000 years since.-Tsin-che the first uni-
versal monarch.—Ancient records and books burnt.-Ancient Barbarous customs.
-Ancient funeral rites.-Europeans visit China.
PAGE 255.
General Remarks on the Government and People of China.-Patriarchal type.-Abso-
lute power of the Emperor." The ten thousand years."―The attributes of the
B
xviii
CONTENTS.
Emperor-he is worshipped as a God.-Imperial road from Pekin into Tartary.—
August dread of the monarch.-The Chinese cabinet.-Regulation respecting
public appointments.-Responsibility of officers.-Office not hereditary.―Heredi-
tary rank little esteemed.-The Penal Code of China.-Punishment of the Chi-
nese.-The Punishment of Treason.-The traitor's whole family suffer death.—
The law of debtor and creditor.-The Chinese estimation of their own country.-
High antiquity of their annals.-Stability of the government.-Instructions of
the people. The sixteen sacred institutes of Kang-he.-Population of the Em-
pire. Census.-The Mun-pae.-The three inventions attributed to the Chinese.
-Foreign intercourse with China, &c. &c. &c.
INTRODUCTION.
Ar no period in the history of the world, has the attention of civilized
nations been so fully directed towards China, its early history, and
modern position, as at the present moment.
r
The single fact, that that nation comprises within its limits, a popu-
lation of three hundred and sixty millions of human beings, and that a
struggle has for some time past been in progress between Great Britain
and the Celestial Empire; a struggle too, which may involve the mightiest
results, both as regards commerce and christianity, is of itself sufficient
to awaken the deepest degree of interest in the mind, as well of the
philanthropist, as the philosopher. These latter days," as they are
sometimes called, are in the prophetic view of many, destined to be
marked by events of most momentous importance: events calculated no
little to facilitate the onward and upward march of civilization, to penetrate
with the light of knowledge and science, the darkest portions of the earth,
to soften the roughness of the savage, and subdue, into something like
Christianity, the millions and tens of millions of human beings, who
have yet to experience the beneficent influences of a religion, that has for
its handmaidens, Faith, Hope, and Charity. With these views, and the
long train of eagle imaginings that are likely to be kindled in the san-
guine and far-seeing mind, by anticipations of what may be, prompted in
some sense by what has already taken place, the aspect and destinies of
B 2
XX
INTRODUCTION.
China are calculated to excite the most attentive and profound con-
sideration. It is a wonder, indeed, that a people so multitudinous, and
an empire so vast, should for many ages, and amid the numerous vicissi-
tudes and conflicts that have prostrated thrones, revolutionized nations,
and trodden, as it were, kingdoms into the dust; have experienced but
little change, comparatively speaking, and existed from century to
century, with scarcely a phases observable upon its general and national
characteristics and surface.
But, we think we hear some devoted missionary to the great cause of
religious liberty and human happiness, exclaim, that the doors of a new
empire are about to be opened! A living light is about to flash among
the benighted millions, and the symbols and banners of the only true
God, are about to be planted in a soil and among a people, who are, in
many respects, prepared for the reception of the sublime truths of the
gospel. A new morning seems to break upon the religious world- a new
triumph is about to be hymned among the cherubs and seraphs in the
brighter region above us—another victory is to be achieved by the cross
of Calvary—an empire, vast and wonderful, and hitherto barred from the
general diffusion of missionary knowledge, is about to be thrown open to
all who are willing to take the bible in their hands, and engage in the
delightful work of winning their fellow-creatures to the true source of
both temporal and eternal happiness.
These to some may appear
wild expectations. But all, aye, all, may be fully and speedily realized.
In any event, however, the people of China, their Government, morals,
manners, habits, customs, tastes and characteristics, are, at the present
moment, worthy of especial study. Hitherto, these have been measurably
covered as with a veil; the inner traits of the nation, the minute
peculiarities, the fashionable boudoir, the literary cóterie, and the do-
mestic temples of this numerous people, have been hidden from the eyes
INTRODUCTION.
xxi
of European and American curiosity and scrutiny. True, we have had
valuable books from such pens as the Abbé du Halde, Lord Macartney,
the editor of Lord Amherst's Embassy, Davis, Morrison, Bridgman,
Gutzlaff, and many other writers. To these, the literary and enquiring
world are much indebted. But the authors referred to, have for the most
part given the grand features of the empire, the lofty objects, the leading
traits; while it remained for an American gentleman, Mr. Nathan Dunn,
of Philadelphia, to enter more minutely into the costume, the manners,
habits, science, arts, trades, agriculture, and genius, of this wonderful
people. The author of this hasty introduction, speaks from many years
personal knowledge of Mr. Dunn, in China, and in the United States.
He was intimately acquainted with him in both countries, as an extensive
and successful merchant, and knew that while he resided in China, for a
period of twelve years, his opportunities for collecting every information
were indeed extraordinary, and that they were abundantly improved by
patient research, indefatigable industry, tact, courtesy, and a degree of
popularity amongst the Chinese, never surpassed in the history of any
foreigner. He was assisted moreover, in his commendable labors, by
Houqua, Tingqua, and other Hong merchants of considerable note;
and who in this particular, seemed to rise above the prejudices of their
countrymen, and to take delight in imparting correct information. The
design at first, was merely to collect a few rare specimens for his own
gratification; but the appetite grew with what it fed upon, and thus we
may, without exaggeration, describe the result as the "Chinese World in
Miniature." We feel satisfied that the expectations of those who may
feel a desire to examine this collection, to investigate its wonders, and
thus in some sense, analyze the mental and moral qualities of the Chinese,
to gather some knowledge of their idols, their temples, their pagodas,
their bridges, their arts, their sciences, their manufactures, their
xxii
INTRODUCTION.
tastes, their fancies, their parlours, their drawing rooms, their
clothes, their finery, their ornaments, their weapons of war, their vessels,
their dwellings, and the thousand et ceteras, which make up their moving
and living world, will not be disappointed. One, indeed, is astonished
at the vast materials, the thousands of objects, which by years of patient
labor and unwearied effort, the enterprizing proprietor of this exhibition
has collected. The mere catalogue, as will be seen by the extent of
this volume, forms quite a study of itself. And yet, to those who
really love to ponder on the results of ages of ingenuity and habit,
especially among an exclusive people like the Chinese, this brief
outline will afford but an imperfect idea of the mass of materials,
the variety of specimens, the beauty, rarity, novelty, and extreme sin-
gularity, that are combined in this vast magazine of curiosities and
wonders. A single article will illustrate whole pages of written descrip-
tion. The visitor appears to have the living Chinese in the images
before him, and with a little imagination, to be moving and living
among them. An hour passed with such curiosities, will afford even to
the youthful and careless of enquiry, a more definite and permanent idea
of these Tartar governed millions, than volumes of ordinary details. The
eye and the mind are both enlightened at one and the same moment;
and thus, as it frequently happens, an individual to whom it would be im-
possible to convey a notion of a certain machine or piece of fancy work, by
a written description, has a full and perfect impression of the entire object
at a single glance. As a means of education, this enterprize is invaluable.
It teaches by things rather than words. The images are visible and
tangible, and, therefore, cannot be easily misunderstood. What immense
labor for example, and what intricate details would be necessary to give
an individual, who had never seen such an invention, a correct idea of a
ship in full sail. Yet, present the object to the eye, and a look would at
INTRODUCTION.
xxiii
once suffice to elicit admiration, and impart a more complete general
knowledge, than page upon page of the most minute and elaborate com-
position. So with this collection. Here, we have not one object, but
thousands; not a single production, but an empire with all its variety of
light and shade, its experience, its mind, and the results of both, for
four thousand years. Writers of the highest character have been con-
sulted, in preparing this volume. It is designed as a sort of mute guide;
and as the observer passes from scene to scene, the interest may be
varied from the eye to the mind, by turning from the object before him,
to the history or description of that object. A studious effort has been
made to narrate nothing but facts, and thus to impart correct information.
All fiction and romance have been carefully avoided; and what is stated,
has in no instance been committed to these pages, unless on competent
authority. At Philadelphia, the collection was visited by hundreds of
thousands, and in every instance, it is believed, with entire satisfaction.
Many persons passed hours, nay, whole days in the room, and those who
visited the collection most frequently, seemed more delighted with every
new return. The proprietor has been induced to transport it to Eng-·
land, at the suggestion of many of the most influential, scientific, and
learned persons of the British metropolis and kingdom. He naturally
feels a deep anxiety for the favorable verdict of the intelligent and dis-
cerning upon his labors. And although by no means solicitous for
notoriety, or that noisy fame which so frequently accompanies mere
excitement and clamour, he would be false to himself and to human
nature, should he prove indifferent to the kindly expressions of that
valuable portion of society, who seek to make their fellow-creatures
better, wiser, and happier. He has devoted the flower of his life to this
collection, and has never hesitated at expense. His effort in England
has been, to render, not only the collection, but the saloon in which it is
xxiv
INTRODUCTION.
exhibited, worthy of the visits of the respectable of all classes. For this
purpose, he has built a spacious edifice, and endeavored to make it as
suitable and commodious as possible. But we must draw our hasty
preface to a close. The details which follow, enumerate and furnish out-
lines of the leading objects of curiosity, taste and skill in the Chinese
world. As we remarked at the commencement, this wonderful people
have latterly excited more attention, especially among European nations,
than at any other period of their national existence. It may be, that a new
and a nobler destiny awaits them; that light, knowledge, and christian
civilization, and a more liberal communion with the families of man in
other portions of the earth, are about to form an epoch in their career.
If so, who may foretel the result? Who may predict what another
century will accomplish? The imagination pauses at the thought, and
while we contemplate the wonders of steam, and the many other im-
provements, discoveries, and appliances of modern science, we are almost
tempted to doubt the impossibility of any change in the progress of
nations. But to the details of the collection. We conclude this intro-
duction with a few remarks on Chinese history, as an appropriate preli-
minary to a study of " matters and things" in the Celestial Empire.
The Chinese claim a national existence, coeval with the most remote
antiquity. Much that is recorded in their annals, however, is admitted
even by their own historians, to be doubtful; while the authors of every
other nation who have written upon the subject, pronounce the earliest
so-called history of China, as absolutely fabulous. Good authorities
name Fuh-he, who flourished about 2247 years before Christ, as the
first Emperor. Yaou, a virtuous sovereign, some centuries after, reigned
102 years. The empire then floated down the stream of time without
any extraordinary event or national convulsion, while the morals of the
people were greatly improved, by the precepts and writings of their great
INTRODUCTION.
XXV
philosopher, Confucius, who was born 550 years B.C. In the twelfth
century of the christian era, the Chinese used a paper currency, founded
on Government security, being the earliest record we have of paper
money. It has, however, been long discontinued, and its place supplied
by the present metal coin, previously to which the shell of the tortoise
and pearl oyster were used as a circulating medium in exchange for com-
modities, till about 200 years B.C., when the tseen above alluded to, was
introduced, a description of which will be found in the following pages.
A. D. 1246, Marco Polo, a Venetian, visited China, and shortly after,
his brother joined him. They were received with favor by the Imperial
Sovereigns. Catholic, and particularly Jesuit missionaries, were after-
wards permitted to reside in China for several ages; but were at length
expelled, on the pretext, real or assumed, that they interfered with the
Government. In the thirteenth century, China was invaded by Ghengis
Khan, who put millions to the sword; and the nation finally submitted
to the Mongul Tartar sovereigns, A.D. 1280. In 1368, however, the
Tartars were driven out, and a native dynasty continued until 1644.
In that year, the Manchoo Tartars invaded the empire, and placed their
chief upon the throne, and the present monarch, Taou Kwang, is de-
scended from that successful warrior. The Portuguese were the first
European traders to China; and they were soon followed by the British,
French, American and other nations.
DESCRIPTIVE
CATALOGUE OF THE COLLECTION.
GENERAL VIEW OF THE INTERIOR OF THE SALOON.
The Chinese Collection is situated in St. George's Place, Hyde Park
Corner. The exterior of the entrance to the building is in the style of
Chinese Architecture, taken from a model of a summer house now
in the collection.
The apartment occupied by the collection is 225 feet in length by 50
in width, with lofty ceilings, supported by numerous pillars. On passing
through the vestibule, the visitor finds himself, as it were, transported
to a new world. It is China in miniature. The view is imposing in the
highest degree. The rich screen-work, elaborately carved and gilt, at
either end of the saloon, the many-shaped and varied-colored lanterns
suspended throughout the entire ceiling; the native paintings which
cover the walls; the Chinese maxims adorning the columns and entabla-
tures; the embroidered silks, gay with a hundred colours, and tastefully
displayed above the cases containing the figures, and the multitude of
Note.-The visitor is requested to commence with the screen at the entrance, and
then take the large wall cases on the right hand in the order in which they are num-
bered, commencing with the temple. The paintings will be subsequently noticed by
themselves.
28
smaller cases crowded with rare and interesting objects, form a tout
ensemble, possessing a beauty entirely its own, and which must be seen
before it can be realised.
SUPERB CHINESE SCREEN AT THE UPPER END OF THE
SALOON.
This part of the saloon is almost entirely occupied with a rare and admi-
rable specimen of Chinese screen-work. It is of ample dimensions, and is
richly and tastefully gilded; the portion of the wood-work not covered with
gold is painted of delicate green; and the silk inserted in the panels is as
gay as it can be rendered by a profusion of exquisitely executed paintings
of the most delicate and magnificent of eastern flowers. The whole view is
redolent of the spirit and beauty of spring. The drawings and colouring
of the flowers are admirable, and show the perfection which has been
attained in these branches of their art by Chinese painters. Besides the
floral delineation, there is also a row of silk panels, if we may be allowed
the expression, exhibiting views of naval architecture, both curious and
instructive. The whole is surmounted by a richly carved and gilt fret-
work of exquisite beauty and design.
CHINESE TEMPLE AND IDOLS,
WITH INCENSE VESSELS, TEMPLE, FURNITURE, OFFERINGS, &c.
The three colossal figures in this section of a religious temple are the
triad of Buddha-San Paou Füh-"The three precious Buddhas,”.
"The past, present, and to come." At the right hand is seated, Kwo-keu
Fuh-the first of the triad, whose reign is already past. In the centre is
Heen-tsae-Fuh-that person of Buddha, who now reigns over the world;
and at the left hand, We-lae-Fuh, whose reign is not yet come.

UIT
29
These figures are eleven feet in height, and are representations of the
divinities in the celebrated Honan "Jos-house.”*
Upon a carved and gilt tablet, in front of the temple, is inscribed the
characters Tae Hung Paou Teen, i. e. “THE GREAT, Powerful, Pre-
CIOUS PALACE.”
The attributes of Buddha are infinite, and he is worshipped in many
persons; being sometimes male and sometimes female.
The principal religion of China is Buddhism or Boodhism, which also
prevails over Birmah, Siam, Ceylon, Japan, and Cochin-China. It is
stated by Ward, that Boodh, the founder of this religion, is described in
Burmese books to have been a son of the king of Benares, that he
flourished about 600 years B. C., and that he had, in various ages,
ten incarnations. The Boodhists do not believe in a First Cause; they
think matter eternal; that every portion of animated existence has its own
rise, tendency, and destiny, in itself; that the condition of creatures on
earth is regulated by works of merit and demerit; that works of merit
raise us to happiness and the world to prosperity; while those of vice and
demerit degenerate the world, until the universe itself is dissolved. They
suppose a superior deity, raised to that rank by his merit; but he is not
Governor of the world. To the present period they assign five deities,
four of whom have already appeared, the last being Gandama or Boodh,
whose pre-eminence continues 5000 years, 2384 of which are gone by.
At the end of his 5000 years, another saint will obtain the supremacy.
Six hundred millions of human souls are said to be canonized with each
Deity, but Boodh took only 24,000 of his company to heaven with him.
The lowest estate is hell-the next, souls in the forms of brutes; and
both these are states of punishment. The state above is probationary—
that of MAN; and still above degrees of honour and happiness, up to
deities, and demi-gods to which man, if found worthy, ascends; or, on
the contrary, goes into the lower states of punishment. The Boodhists
believe there are four superior heavens; below these, twelve other
heavens, with six other inferior heavens. After these comes the Earth;
* Jos is a Chinese corruption of the Portuguese word "Deos," and is by many
persons supposed to be a Chinese word for "God or Spirit."
30
then the world of snakes; then thirty-two chief hells, and one hundred
and twenty hells of lesser torment. The hell of the Chinese Buddhists
may be described from a translation, made by the late Doctor Morrison,
of the explanatory letter-press on ten large wood cuts, which are exhi-
bited on particular occasions in the temples, and copies of which have
been mistaken sometimes in Europe for the criminal punishments of
China, giving rise to unfounded notions of the cruelty of penal jurisdic-
tion in that country.
Prior to their final condemnation, the souls are exposed to judgment
in the courts of the Shih-ming-wang, "the ten kings of darkness:" the
proceedings in these courts are represented exactly after the manner of
the Chinese judicial trials, with the difference in the punishments, which,
in these pictures of the infernal regions, are of course sufficiently ap-
palling. In one view is seen the judge with his attendants and officers
of the court, to whom the merciful goddess Kwan-yin appears, in order
to save from punishment a soul that is condemned to be pounded in a
mortar. Other punishments consist of sawing asunder, tying to a red-
hot pillar of brass, &c. Liars have their tongues cut out; thieves and
robbers are cast upon a hill of knives, and so on. After the trials are
over, the more eminently good ascend to paradise; the middling class
return to earth in other bodies, to enjoy riches and honors; while the
wicked are tormented in hell, or transformed into various animals, whose
dispositions and habits they imitated during their past lives. The
Buddhists believe that persons who obtain a knowledge of things past,
present, and to come, have the power of rendering themselves invisible,
and are ABSORBED into the Deity.
The primary motive for doing good and worshiping Buddha, is the
hope of obtaining absorption into the nature of the god, and being freed
from transmigrations.
No difference exists between the highest class of votaries and Buddha,
because eventually they become Buddhas.
Those who perform works of merit become great among men, and are
received into some of the heavens, in all of which the enjoyments are
sensual. But, those who do evil, go into a hell proportioned to their
crimes. They believe that at the end of a Kulpu," a length of time
31
·
too great for human calculation-the universe will be destroyed. Five
commands are delivered to common Buddhists,-not to destroy animal
life; to avoid theft, adultery, falsehood, and the use of spirituous
liquors. Other commands, restraining dress, luxury, &c., are given to
the higher classes. They all consider their adoration as paid to a being
or beings of exalted merit—not to a Creator.
The fraternity of priests of this religious body, usually called Ho-shang,
Harmony and elevation," are a wandering race, partially supported by
alms; and by producing a certificate, called Taou-tëě, are entitled to
three days provision at every temple they go to. They worship daily
in the temples, and are forbidden to marry. Many of the Chinese
consider the Grand Lama, as the highest priest on earth. This
pontifex maximus resides in Thibet, and the Tartar population of China
pay him homage.
Buddhism, though sometimes patronised by the Emperor of China,
and supported by large and numerous monasteries, is nevertheless but
little esteemed by men of letters.
The God "Fuh," so much revered in China, as the founder of a
religion introduced from India into the empire, in the first century of
the Christian era, was miraculously born in Cashmere, 1027 B. C.
He was deified at thirty years of age, and his priests are called Lamas,
Săng, Talapoins, or Bonzes. He died at the age of 79, declaring to his
disciples, "Know then, that there is no other principle of all things,
but nothing. From nothing all things have sprung, and to nothing
all must return. There all our hopes must end." Such is the athe-
istical philosophy and belief of Füh, whose followers recognise "the
three precious ones," as the object of their supreme worship; the past,
the present, and the future; but the doctrines taught in his name
are divided into exoteric and esoteric—the former distinguishing actions
into good and evil, with rewards and punishments after death, and
recognising the five precepts or commands of Boodh, already noticed;
while the latter teach the belief that all things sprang from nothing,
and to nothing all things will return; but in so returning will be
absorbed into a pure essence, and become a part of the Deity.
32
The paradise of Füh includes those circumstances of sensual indul-
gence which the founders of most false religions have promised to
their votaries; but unlike the elysium of Mahomet, no houries are to be
supplied to the saints of Buddhism, for even the women that are admitted
there must first change their sex. “The bodies of saints reproduced
from the lotus* are pure and fragrant, their countenances fair and well-
formed, their hearts full of wisdom, and without vexation. They dress
not, and yet are not cold; they dress, and yet are not made hot. They
eat not, and yet are not hungry; they eat, and yet are not satisfied.
They are without pain, irritation, and sickness, and they become not old.
They behold the lotus flowers and trees of gems delightfully waving,
like the motion of a vast sheet of embroidered silk. On looking upwards,
they see the firmament full of the To-lo flowers, falling in beautiful con-
fusion like rain. The felicity of that kingdom may justly be called
superlative, and the age of its inhabitants is without measure.
This is the place called the Paradise of the West."
The next principal divinity to the triad before alluded to is Chin-te,
a goddess represented with numerous arms, indicative of her power to
save.
The third, Kwan-yin, a merciful goddess, much spoken of, and fre-
quently represented. This goddess is highly honored, and is one of the
most important divinities in the Buddhist mythology.
The fourth, T'ëen-hwa Shin-moo, the sacred mother who superintends
children afflicted with the small pox.
The fifth, Hwuy-fuh Foo-jin, the patroness of childless women, and
worshipped by them. Always represented with a child in her arms.
The sixth, Tae-shin, the god of wealth, together with other feigned
deities, presiding over individual, local, and national interests to the
number of many thousands. The priests live in monasteries connected
with the temples of Fuh, practise celibacy, fast, pray for the souls of
the dead, use holy water, worship relics, and pray in a strange tongue.
In saying their prayers, or repeating passages from sacred books, they
count the Soo choo," which is the name of the beads worn by these
* The lotus is a favorite type of creative power, and representations of it perpetually
occur in connexion with Buddhism.

IN.
訊
​DR M
33
priests, and of which they have 108.* They consider also that the
good and bad actions of men are placed to their accounts as in mer-
cantile book-keeping-the good on the credit, and the bad on the debtor
side of the page, which is finally balanced, and the persons whose names
are inscribed, admitted to happiness or consigned to punishment, accord-
ing to the merits of their respective accounts current.
CASE 1.
No. 1. MANDARIN OF THE FIRST CLASS AND HIS SECRETARY.
No. 2.
MANDARIN OF THE SECOND CLASS.
No. 3.
ANOTHER MANDARIN OF THE SIXTH CLASS.
Two MASSIVE ARM-CHAIRS, COVERED WITH CRIMSON DRAPERY,
RICHLY EMBROIDERED.
SQUARE TABLE, HANDSOMELY CARVED, WITH MARBLE TOP.
SPECIMENS OF CRIMSON DRAPERY, ELEGANTLY EMBROIDERED, HANG-
ING IN FRONT OF THE TABLE.
CAP STANDS AND VARIOUS ORNAMENTAL ARTICLES.
CHINESE MAXIMS ON THE WALL.
THE principal figures in this case are three civil Mandarins,† of the
first, second and sixth grades, bearing the title "Ta jin," (" great and
distinguished men,") applicable to persons of the above class. The one
highest in rank is seated, with his head uncovered; the others, with their
caps still on, are paying the customary respect to their superior, pre-
viously to the occupancy of an adjoining chair. The former is upon the
left, this being the post of honour among the Chinese. A secretary
is in waiting behind the principal, with official documents in his hand.
* These beads are also an ornament, used by the reigning family, and by the highest
mandarins. They seem to have a reference to the 108 ceremonies mentioned in
Ward's Hindoo Mythology. Vol. ii. page 260.
+ The word " Mandarin," from the Portuguese, is significant with the Chinese term
"Kwan," i. e, an officer of the Government, whether civil or military
C
31
The two dignitaries are attired in their state robes, which are literally
stiff with embroidery, a liberal proportion of which is wrought with gold
thread. The greater part of the splendour of their under dresses is hidden
from the eye of the visitor by the loose outward garment of dark purple
satin, called by the Chinese "Paou-kwa," to divest these figures of which,
would give the visitor an incorrect representation of these personages as
they invariably appear upon state occasions. Each has an enormous bead
necklace, extending below the waist in front, with a string of" chaou-
choo," or "court beads" attached to it at the hinder part of the neck,
which reaches down to the middle of the back. The caps are dome-shaped,
with the lower portion turned up, and forming a broad rim, which is faced
with black velvet. The top of the cap is surmounted by a globular but-
ton, or ball,* from which there depends a sufficient quantity of crimson
silk to cover the whole of the upper portion. The material and colour
of the crowning sphere indicates the rank of the wearer.
The cap is
the most ceremonial appendage among the Chinese, with the ball on
its conical top; as before remarked, it is a distinctive mark of titular
rank. As on most other occasions, their customs as to covering the
head are the very reverse of our own. We consider it a mark of respect
to uncover the head; with them it would be a great v:olation of decorum,
unless among intimates, and with leave previously asked. In hot weather,
when friends interchange visits, and it is more agreeable to be uncovered,
the host says to his guest," Shing Kwan!"-raise, or put off the cap,—
after which the scruple no longer exists. Besides the distinctive button,
the removal of which by the emperor, would be to degrade the person
from all rank in the state, each grade of mandarins has a characteristic
badge, worn both upon the breast and the back. This is a square piece
of purple silk, covered with various embroidery. Its centre is occupied
with the figure of a bird, a dragon, or a tiger. The rank of the officer is
designated by the kind and colour of the central figure. In the badges
of the two mandarins (Nos. 1 and 2) for example, the figure in each is
a bird; but in one it is white, and in the other blue. The dress of a
military officer is adorned with the figure of a tiger. It may be as well
here to remark, that at the imperial court, and on all state occasions of
* Called "Maou-ting."
35
pomp and ceremony, the figure of a dragon denotes the emperor, and
that of a tiger, his ministers. The articles of furniture in this case
are such as are usually seen in the houses of the higher classes. The wood
of which the chairs and table are made, is of a hard grain resembling rose-
wood. It is called by the Chinese "Muh-wang," or King of woods,"
and is esteemed beyond all other trees.
It is deserving of remark that with the exception of the Chinese, chairs
are not used by eastern nations.
On the wall are suspended a pair of silk scrolls, bearing the following
appropriate maxims:_" A nation depends on faithful Ministers for its
tranquillity." “Mens' sons should rest on filial piety as their particular
duty.”
The nobility of China are of two kinds, hereditary and official. The
former class is not numerous, nor greatly influential. It consists chiefly
of the relations of the emperor, who are styled princes, and are bound to
live within the precincts of the imperial palace. The real nobility, or
aristocracy of the country, are the mandarins. Of these there are esti-
mated to be, on the civil list of the empire, not less than fourteen thousand.
The mandarins are divided into nine ranks, or pin, each of which is indi-
cated by a double badge--the colour of the globe on the apex of the cap,
and the embroidery on the front and back of their official robes. The
colours employed are red, blue, crystal, white, and gold; and these, with
certain modifications of shade, serve to distinguish what are denominated
“Kew pin,” i. e. "the nine ranks," into which all persons possessing any
rank in China are divided. The nominal rank, and of course the distinc-
tive costume, of any of the official grades, may be purchased of the
emperor. The sum demanded for the distinction, is, however, propor-
tionately large. Houqua, for instance, the richest of the Hong mer-
chants, whose likeness we have in the collection, purchased his no-
minal rank at the enormous price of 100,000 dollars, or £20,000
sterling.
The present dynasty has frequently sold commissions both in the civil
service and in the army, in order to supply its pecuniary wants; which
circumstance gives much dissatisfaction to those who depend on their
c 2
36
learning and knowledge for promotion; and hence this conduct is gene-
rally deemed disreputable.
Honours obtained by purchase, as in the above instance, formed a
considerable source of revenue to the government during the reign of some
emperors.
Persons are selected for civil office in China, with an almost exclusive
reference to their talents and education. Strange as it may seem, there
is probably no other country on the globe where cultivated talent, exer-
cises its legitimate sway to an equal extent. Wealth, titular nobility,
and purchased rank, have their influence, no doubt; but, unless accom-
panied by personal merit, and, above all, by education, their power is
comparatively limited and feeble. The emperor chooses for his officers
none but men of the highest attainments and most commanding
abilities.
It is well-known that the civil institutions of China claim to be framed
and fashioned upon the exact model of a wise family government. The
emperor is invariably spoken of as the "father of the nation;" the
viceroy of a province arrogates the same title in reference to his satrapy;
a mandarin is regarded as holding a similar relation to the city which he
governs; and even a military commander is the "father" of his soldiers.
This idea, with its corresponding sentiments, is sedulously instilled into
every subject of the empire, from the earliest dawn of intellect, 'till its
powers are extinguished by death. The Book of Sacred Instructions,
whose sixteen discourses are read to the people twice every moon, incul-
cates the doctrine again and again. "In our general conduct," it says,
"not to be orderly is to fail in filial duty; in serving our sovereign, not
to be faithful, is to fail in filial duty; in acting as a magistrate, not to be
careful, is to fail in filial duty; in the intercourse of friends, not to be
sincere, is to fail in filial duty; in arms and in war, not to be brave, is to
fail in filial duty."
In fact, obedience to parents, filial piety, and duty to superiors, are
placed at the head of all moral excellence.
Mr. Davis observes, that fathers have virtually the power of life and
death over their children; for, even if they kill them designedly, they are
37
subject only to the chastisement of the bamboo, and a year's banish-
ment; if struck by them, to no punishment at all. The penalty for
striking parents, or for cursing them, is death, as among the Hebrews,
(Exod. xxi.) It does not appear that this absolute power bestowed on
fathers, is productive of evil; the natural feeling being, on the whole,
a sufficient security against its abuse.
CASE II.
No. 4.
PRIEST OF Fúн, OR BUDDHA, IN FULL CANONICALS.
5.
PRIEST OF THE TAOU SECT, IN FUll dress.
6.
GENTLEMEN IN COMPLETE MOURNING APPAREL.
7.
SERVANT OF THE ABOVE, ALSO IN MOURNING DRESS.
8.
CHINESE SOLDIER WITH MATCHLOCK.
9. ARCHER OF THE IMPERIAL ARMY OF THE TARTAR TRIBE.
CIRCULAR CHINESE SHIELD, MADE OF RATTAN.
VARIOUS MILITARY WEAPONS ON THE WALL.
THE two sects whose ministers are here represented, are, properly
speaking, the only religious sects in China. There is, indeed, a third-
the Confucian-but its doctrines constitute a system rather of philosophy
than of theology. It has no priesthood but the Emperor and his civil
mandarins, no modern temples, and no regular worship.
Having previously noticed the religion of Buddha, we subjoin the fol-
lowing account of the Taou sect, together with the philosophy of Con-
fucius. The Taou, or Rational religion, is indigenous in China.
This religio-philosophic sect is numerous, and consists of the followers
of the doctrines of Laou-Keun-tsze, who lived 560 B.C. The founder
of this system has been called the Epicurus of China; and, in some points,
there would seem to be a resemblance between the doctrines of the
Chinese sage and the Grecian philosopher.
38
He inculcated a contempt for riches and honours, and all worldly
distinctions, and aimed, like Epicurus, at subduing every passion
that could interfere with personal tranquillity and self-enjoyment. Ac-
cording to Mr. Davis, however, they could not even pretend to despise
death, and, therefore, studied magic and alchymy, in the hope of dis-
covering some elixir or other means of prolonging life. In this they
failed, of course. Some of the leaders of his sect are called "Doctors of
Reason," and many of their tenets and traditions are of an extremely
fanciful and absurd character.
Meanwhile the Confucians, or followers of Confucius, (Kung-foo-tsze,)
the Chinese philosopher, who flourished about 500 B.C., teach the prac-
tice of every moral virtue, and a deep veneration for God, or the King of
Heaven. The worship, and the philosophy, rather than the religion of
Confucius, is greatly patronised by persons of rank in China. There are
1,560 temples dedicated to him, and 62,000 pigs and rabbits annually
sacrificed to his memory; though his worship is also practised without
temples or priests, or indeed any form of external worship-every one
adoring the Supreme Being in the way he likes best. The system of
Confucius is the state religion. The emperor is Pontifex Maximus; the
mandarins form the only priesthood, and the whole body of literati are
its adherents.
The doctrines of the Confucians are embodied in nine classical or
sacred books, called " The Four Books," and "The Five Canonical
Works." These contain a complete body of rules, first, for the govern-
ment of one's self, and the regulation of social intercourse; secondly, for
the government of a family, and the education of a community; and,
thirdly, for the government of an empire and the management of its
complex machinery. The sententious brevity of style that characterises
these celebrated productions, renders the meaning often obscure, and has
induced a mass of commentaries of formidable bulk; but it cannot be
doubted that they contain many maxims just in sentiment, wise in policy,
and admirably suited to the genius of the people,-maxims which have
conferred merited immortality upon the memory of their author, and
done more for the stability of the empire than all other causes combined.
Confucius, however, avoided, almost entirely, strictly religious subjects.
39
Dr. Morrison says, that he admitted he did not understand much con-
cerning the gods; and he adds, that his most celebrated commentator,
Choo-foo-tsze, affirmed that sufficient knowledge was not possessed to
say positively that they existed.
Thus, it will be seen, that the three religions of China are by no
means uniform; and are much blended one with the other—that a
species of Epicurean philosophy prevails, that atheistical doctrines are
derived from Füh, and that their idolatry is accompanied by the most
debasing, absurd, and superstitious bigotry, both in precept and practice,
notwithstanding the wholesome restraints and sound ethics inculcated in
the writings of Confucius.
And yet, on the other hand, it is but justice to admit that the Chinese,
with all the faults, metaphysical difficulties, contradictions and absurdi-
ties of their religions, have entirely divested their worship of the cruelties
and other abominations that deform the rites of the gods of Hindostan,
and add a still deeper dye to the errors of idolatry. Their mythology is
perhaps quite as ridiculous as those of the Greeks and Romans, though
certainly not so offensive to good morals as some parts of those
systems.
No Sabbath is observed by the Chinese, nor is it intimated in their
divisions of time. It will, however, be interesting to the Christian world
to learn that by some of the Chinese our Saviour, Ya-soo, is ranked
among the number of the gods; while all the better informed classes,
consider Him as a just and perfect man. The Virgin Mary (Ma-le-ya,
or Maria) being placed by them in the same class.
The following very curious account of our Saviour was taken from
the Chinese mythological history by the late Dr. Milne. The work in
which it appears is entitled, "A complete history of Gods and Genii,"
and was compiled in twenty-two thin octavo volumes by a native physi-
cian, during the reign of Kâng-he, at a time when many Catholics were
in China :-
The extreme western nations say, that at a distance of ninety-seven
thousand le from China, a journey of about three years, commences the
border of Se-Keang. In that country there was formerly a virgin named
Ma-le-ya. In the first year of Yuen-che, in the dynasty Hân, a
40
The
celestial god reverently announced to her, saying, " The Lord of heaven
has selected thee to be his mother." Having finished his discourse, she
actually conceived and afterwards bore a son. The mother, filled with
joy and reverence, wrapped him in a cloth and placed him in a horse's
manger. A flock of celestial gods (angels) sang and rejoiced in the void
space. Forty-days after, his mother presented him to the holy teacher,
and named him Ya-soo, (Jesus.) When twelve years of age, he fol-
lowed his mother to worship in the holy palace. Returning home, they
lost each other. After three day's search, coming into the palace she
saw Ya-soo sitting upon an honorable seat, conversing with aged and
learned doctors about the works and doctrines of the Lord of Heaven.
Seeing his mother he was glad, returned with her, and served her with
the utmost filial reverence. When thirty years of age, he left his mother
and teacher, and travelling to the country of Yu-te-a, taught men to
do good. The sacred miracles which he wrought were numerous.
chief families, and those in office in that country, being proud and wicked
in the extreme, envied him for the multitude of those who joined them-
selves to him, and planned to slay him. Among the twelve disciples of
Ya-soo, there was a covetous one named Yu-ta-sze. Aware of the
wish of the greater part of his countrymen, and seizing on a proffered
gain, he led forth a multitude at night, who taking Ya-soo, bound him
and carried him before A-na-sze, in the court-house of Pe-la-to. Rudely
stripping off his garments, they tied him to a stone pillar, inflicting upon
him upwards of 5,400 stripes, until his whole body was torn and
mangled; but still he was silent, and like a lamb remonstrated not.
The wicked rabble, taking a cap made of piercing thorns, pressed it for-
cibly down upon his temples. They hung a vile red cloak on his body,
and hypocritically did reverence to him as a king. They made a very
large and heavy machine of wood, resembling the character ten, (the
Chinese write ten with an upright cross) which they compelled him to
bear on his shoulders. The whole way it sorely pressed him down, so
that he moved and fell alternately. His hands and feet were nailed to
the wood, and being thirsty, a sour and bitter drink was given him.
When he died the heavens were darkened, the earth shook, the rocks,
striving against each other, were broken into small pieces. He was then
41
aged thirty-three years. On the third day after his death, he again
returned to life, and his body was splendid and beautiful. He appeared
first to his mother, in order to remove her sorrow.
when about to ascend to heaven, he commanded his
Forty days after,
disciples, in all a
hundred and two, to separate, and go every where under heaven to
teach, and administer a holy water to wash away the sins of those who
should join their sect. Having finished his commands, a flock of ancient
holy ones followed him up to the celestial kingdom. Ten days after, a
celestial god descended to receive his mother, who also ascended up on
high. Being set above the nine orders, she became the empress of
heaven and earth, and the protectress of human beings."
The figure in case II, representing a mourner, is habited in coarse
sackcloth, the universal mourning apparel in China.
The shoes are
white; the hair and beard are permitted to grow unshaven; and an odd
species of head-gear surmounts the cranium. He is attended by a ser-
vant, or heel attendant;” the word being derived from Kan, “the heel
of the foot, which they call the root of the foot. In this person's hand
is carried a mourning lantern, of which the Chinese exhibit an abun-
dance in their funeral processions; they are distinguished from all
others by the presence of the emblematic white. The full period of
mourning for a parent is three years, but this is commonly reduced in
practice to twenty-seven months; a shorter period is allotted for other
relations. Three years must elapse after the death of a parent before a
child is permitted to marry; and a similar period is allowed as a cessa-
tion from holding office.
On the death of an emperor, his hundreds of millions of subjects
mourn for him as children do for their parent. All officers of govern-
ment take the ball and crimson silk from their caps.
The active principle of filial duty and affection before spoken of, is
aptly illustrated in the following idea-" to sleep upon straw, with a
sod for the pillow," as the Chinese are taught to do when mourning for
their parents.
The soldier has on a huge pair of coarse blue nankeen trousers, and
a red tunic of the same, with white facings. The cap is of quilted nan-
keen, with the edge turned up, and a red knot at the top. More com-
42
monly, it is either of rattan or bamboo painted, being in a conical shape,
and well suited to ward off a blow. He is armed with a rude matchlock,
the only kind of hand fire-arms known among the Chinese. These they
consider inferior weapons to the bow and arrow. They may perhaps,
be so, considering their appearance and make. We occasionally, says
Mr. Davis, saw specimens of the military who had the word "yung❞—
valour, inscribed on the breast. This might be all very well,—but
when the same individuals turned round and displayed the identical word
inscribed on their backs, the position seemed particularly unsuitable.
There is hung up on the wall a shield, constructed of rattan turned
spirally round a centre, very similar in shape and appearance to our
circular basket lids. Besides the matchlock and shield, a variety of
weapons, offensive and defensive, are in use in China; such as helmets,
bows and arrows, cross-bows, spears, javelins, pikes, halberds, double
and single swords, daggers, maces, a species of quilted armour of cloth
studded with metal buttons, &c.
The standing army of the Celestial Empire numbers about 700,000
men, of whom 80,000 are Tartars, the rest native Chinese, with about
18,000 military mandarins of all grades. The principal officers of con-
fidence and trust are Tartars, of whom a proportion constitute the
cavalry. They receive a higher rate of pay for their services than their
Chinese fellow soldiers. In the selection of both, none are chosen but
the healthy and robust, and a preference is given to the most sightly.
The pay and allowance of the soldiery exceed the usual earnings of
common people; hence it is, that to enlist into the " Army of Heaven,”
insures to the recruit, more of the comforts of life than he would other-
wise enjoy. The arms, accoutrements, and the upper garment, are
furnished by the emperor to each soldier. The pay of a Chinese horse-
man is about three ounces and a third (heavier than European ounces,)
of silver (three taels) with an allowance of fifteen measures or rations of
rice every lunar month. A Tartar horseman receives seven ounces of silver,
and twenty measures of rice for the same period. A Chinese foot soldier
has one ounce and 6-10 of silver, and ten measures of rice; and a
Tartar of the same rank receives two ounces of silver, and ten measures
of rice every moon. In addition to the regular pay and allowance thus
•

?
DLM
43
quoted, they receive donations from the emperor, on particular occa-
sions; viz., when they marry, and also at the birth of male children.
At the death of their parents, they obtain a gift of consolation;" as
do their families when the soldiers themselves die.
A singular feature in regard to the military officers of China must
not be omitted. They are all subject to corporal punishment, and
very often experience it, together with the punishment of the cangue, or
moveable pillory, consisting of a heavy frame of wood, sometimes of a
hundred pounds in weight, according to the heinousness of the crime,
with holes for the head and hands. This parental allotment of a certain
quantum of flagellation and personal exposure, is occasionally the fate
of the highest officers, and must certainly be regarded as a very odd way
of improving their military character.
The archer represents a Tartar in the imperial army. The bow
and arrow appear to have been in use from the earliest period, and
are still used as weapons "in the grand army." The bow is made of
elastic wood and horn combined, with a string of silk strongly twisted
and wrought. The strength of Chinese bows is estimated by the weight
required to bend them, varying from about eighty to a hundred pounds.
The string in shooting, is held behind an agate or stone ring on the right
thumb, the first joint of which is bent forward, and confined by the
middle joint of the forefinger being pressed upon it. The head of the
arrow is of a spear-like shape; but others at the soldier's side are of a
different construction, having a horn tube at the point, perforated
with holes, which, when discharged from the bow, produce a whistling
sound as they pass through the air-these are for amusement only. The
visitor will observe at his feet, a cross-bow of ancient make, but simple
construction. The arrows used in this are short, and are dropped into
the small aperture to receive them, and discharged successively with the
greatest rapidity.
Archery has always, from very remote times, been held in high esti-
mation, and much practised by the Chinese. It is now, however,
looked upon rather as an elegant accomplishment for gentlemen and
military men, like fencing among some Europeans, than as a measure of
defence or offence in actual warfare, when recourse is had to fire arms
1
44
and swords. The bow is used in the army, on board ship, and in gym-
nastic exercises. Practising archery on horseback is regarded as a high
attainment, and is described with care in Chinese books treating of
tactics.
If numbers were the evidence of strength, China, in a military point
of view, would be most formidable. Her exclusive system for so
many centuries, though it has no doubt saved her much blood and
treasure, has been the principal cause of her want of discipline and
science in modern tactics. Courage and personal bravery are seldom
found when these are wanting. Industry and cheerfulness are their
characteristics; good materials for a government. Of artillery they
know next to nothing. They have no gun-carriages, their cannon
being fixed immoveably in one position. When the Sylph and Am-
herst, sailed up the coast, the Chinese soldiers threw up numerous
mounds of earth, which they white-washed, to give them the appear-
ance of tents!
The costume of the Chinese, as displayed in the figures of this Col-
lection, form an interesting subject of observation. The dress of every
grade of society in China is fixed by usage. Persons in the lower
classes wear coarse and dark-coloured fabrics; while those who have
been more favoured in the accidents of birth and fortune, seek the grati-
fication of their taste in rich and costly silks, satins, furs, broadcloths,
and embroidery. There is a great variety in the dresses; yet, the
general model is not departed from, the usual articles being an under
vest, drawers, a long gown or pelisse buttoning in front, stockings and
shoes. The shoes are singular; generally of embroidered cloth,
sometimes the uppers being of one
lower portion of the soles is leather made of hogs' skins, while the
intermediate space, commonly about an inch in thickness, is filled
up with bamboo paper, with the edge painted white. They are quite
light, notwithstanding their clumsy appearance. The Chinese have no
covering for the hands like gloves; the hands being protected by the
length of the sleeves, which terminate in a form well adapted for this
purpose. The Chinese seem to have a great partiality for blue in their
costume. Frequently the whole garment is of this colour; and even
colour, sometimes another. The
45
when such is not the case, the collar, cuffs, and lower edges of the
drawers are, for the most part, of the favourite hue.
The wealthier Chinese are extravagantly fond of showy dresses, and
a well-provided wardrobe is an object of great pride. Handsome gar-
ments often descend, as an heirloom, from generation to generation, and
constitute the chief riches of a family. A deficiency of clean body-linen
is not regarded as a calamity by a Chinaman. A fair outside is what he
mainly covets, being little heedful of either the quality or condition of
what is underneath. The change from a summer to a winter costume,
and vice versa, is made simultaneously throughout an entire province, the
viceroy setting the example by assuming the cap appropriate to the
season.
There is, therefore, one great fault in Chinese costume, namely, a
want of linen or white cotton-little of which is worn. Though their
garments of light silk will bear washing, they are not so cleanly as
linen. No sheets are used in their beds, and no cloths are spread upon
their tables. The skins of animals are used for winter apparel, par-
ticularly lamb skins from Tartary, some of which are of a very ex-
travagant price, and many of the Chinese furs are extremely hand-
some.
The peculiar taste of the Chinese in this article of dress is carried to a
height of refinement unknown in other countries. The young lamb
in utero, at a certain period of gestation, is taken from the parent, and
its skin prepared with the fine silky wool upon it for dresses, which from
their small size, require a great number to be thus "untimely ripped,"
and the luxury is therefore only enjoyed by the most wealthy. A speci-
men of one of these garments may be seen on a prominent figure in the
pavilion, Case VIII.
i
1
46
CASE III.
No. 10, LITERARY GENTLEMAN IN SUMMER COSTUME.
11.
ANOTHER GENTLEMAN SIMILARLY ATTIRED.
12. ANOTHER GENTLEMAN WITH A FAN.
13.
SERVANT HANDING A BOOK.
14. MANDARIN OF THE FOURTH CLASS.
15.
SERVANT.
A PAIR OF CHINESE BOOK-CASES,
SILK SCROLLS ON THE WALL.
This case contains a group of three literati in summer costume. Their
dresses, which are light and free, contrast advantageously with those tight
and high-collared garments with which fashion obliges us to encumber
ourselves. The dress of the figure on the right hand exposes an
embroidered pad or covering for the knee. These appear to have been
formerly worn on special occasions only, when having to kneel much at the
rites of sacrifice. Similar coverings are now commonly worn by Chinese
gentlemen, being always compelled to kneel in the presence of the officers
of government. This figure is represented as reading aloud a transla-
tion of Æsop's Fables. The visitor will observe, in the hand of this
philosopher, what he would naturally take for a smelling-bottle, but what
is really a receptacle for snuff. Tobacco in all the forms of its prepara-
tion is extensively used; transmuted into snuff, it is carried, not in boxes,
but in small bottles with stoppers, to which there is attached a little spoon
or shovel. With this they take out the pungent dust, and place it upon
the back of the left hand, near the lower joint of the thumb, whence
it is snuffed up to the olfactories, there to perform its titillating office.
Tobacco is said to have been introduced with the Yuen dynasty, A. D.
1300.
A part of the furniture of this case consists of a pair of Chinese book-
cases made of cbony, the panels and other parts of which are beautifully

ነነ፡
47
carved and highly polished. The books are kept in the lower section,
where they are protected from dust by doors in front; the upper section
is an open cabinet, divided into five unequal compartments, set off by
divers ornamental articles. The books are placed in a horizontal position,
and the titles are put on the end instead of the back, each work of several
volumes being preserved in an envelope or case of blue nankeen or
silk.
Between the book cases are suspended on the wall, a pair of silk scrolls
bearing the following maxims;-"The Sages taught four things-letters
-morality—fidelity-truth," and "the highest pleasure is not equal to
the study of letters."
The education and literature of the " Celestial Empire,” form, beyond
comparison, the most interesting and instructive point of view in which
the Chinese can be contemplated. We cannot, indeed, praise the kind of
education practised in China. The studies are confined to one unvaried
routine, and to deviate in the smallest degree from the prescribed track,
would be regarded as something worse than mere eccentricity. Science,
properly speaking, is not cultivated at all. There is no advancement, no
thirsting after fresh achievements of knowledge, no bold and prying
investigations into the mysteries of nature. Chymistry, physiology,
astronomy, and natural philosophy, are therefore at a low ebb. The
instruction given in their schools is almost wholly of a moral and political
complexion, being designed solely to teach the subjects of the empire
their duties. Within the allotted circle all are educated, all must be
educated. According to Mr. Davis, a statute was in existence two thou-
sand years ago, which required that every town and village, down even
to a few families, should have a common school; and one work, of a date
anterior to the Christian era, speaks of the "ancient system of instruc-
tion."
A remarkable passage from the closing part of an address of the an-
cient chieftain Shun to his successor Yu, found in the Shoo-king, or
Book of Records, may not only show the pure system of instruction
at that early day, but prove also the antiquity of its author :-
<<
From the mouth come peace and war. Peace is mild, but war is
destructive from the words of the mouth, then, are these two diverse
1
48
"effects. How greatly ought such springs of evil and of good to be
"feared!"
These words must have been uttered more than four thousand years
ago. They remind us forcibly of the inspired penman, "Out of the
same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing.”
There are annual examinations in the provinces, and triennial ex-
aminations at Pekin which are resorted to by throngs of ambitious
students. At these examinations, all who choose, excepting menial
servants, their children, or grand-children; inferior police officers called
Ya-Yuh; and theatricals may attend. These persons are also excluded
from obtaining any of the above ranks. The prohibition, including
menial servants, excludes a large number of persons. If such a person,
however, becomes wealthy, the law is often evaded. To superintend
the examinations, two persons called Choo-kaou, are deputed from
Pekin.
The present dynasty, which takes great pains in training a standing
army, has introduced a similar examination, and similar titles amongst
the military.
The whole empire is a university, a mighty laboratory of scholars.
The happy men who pass successfully through the several necessary
ordeals are honored with distinctions. They are feasted at the
expense of the nation; their names and victories are published
throughout the empire; they are courted and caressed; and they
become, ipso facto, eligible to all the offices within the gift of the
sovereign. The most learned are appointed to the highest degree of
literary rank, the "Han-lin,"* or membership of the national College.
All this means that the emperor may "pluck out the true talent" of the
The
land, and employ it in the administration of his government.
fourteen thousand civil mandarins are, almost without exception, the
beaux esprits-the best scholars of the realm.
The highest literary graduate is entitled to wear a white stone brought
from India, called Chay hew," on the cap, as a distinguishing mark.
* The term "Han-lin-yuen" (a College instituted in the time of Tang,) signifies
the forest of Pencils."
49
The success of a literary examination is by them termed "plucking a
branch of the fragrant olive," denoting the attainment of the rank of
'Keu-jin;" because that flower is in blossom in Autumn, when the
examination occurs. Educated talent here enjoys its just consideration.
All other titles to respect, all other qualifications for office, are held as
naught compared with this. This, undoubtedly, in connexion with the
rigid enforcement of the doctrine of responsibility, is the true secret of
the greatness and prosperity, the stability and repose of the Celestial
Empire. For, as Dr. Milne truly remarks, they are the ambitious who
generally overturn governments; but in China there is a road open to
the ambitious, without the dreadful alternative of revolutionizing the
country. It is merely required of a man that he should give some
proof of the possession of superior abilities; certainly not an unreasonable
requisition.
In education, the Chinese glory is the inculcation of social and
political duties. Their teaching is chiefly by authority. Hence the
great use made of maxims. These are suspended upon the walls of every
apartment, where they are constantly seen and read from early childhood
to decrepit age. They say, "Good sayings are like pearls strung to-
gether: inscribe them on the walls of your dwelling, and regard them
night and day as wholesome admonitions.”
The Chinese are a reading people, and the number of their published
works is very considerable. In the departments of morals, history,
biography, the drama, poetry, and romance, there is no lack of writings,
"such as they are." The Chinese Materia Medica of Le-she-chan,
comprises forty octavo volumes. Of statistical works the number is
also very large. Their novels are said to be, many of them, excellent
pictures of the national manners. The plot is often complex, the inci-
dents natural and the characters well sustained.
The writings of the Chinese are exceedingly numerous, and the variety
of style is very great. From the days of Confucius down to our own
times, during a period of more than twenty-three hundred years, there
has been one uninterrupted series of authors.
The five classics and four books, taken collectively, are somewhat less
copious than the Old and New Testaments, with which however they
D
50
are not to be compared, either in diversity and beauty of composition, or
in purity and elevation of sentiment.
Still the precepts given, the duties inculcated, and the prohibitions
made, are remarkable, and have elicited enquiry whence writings of so
salutary a character for the moral government of this people should have
originally emanated.
China is full of books, and schools, and colleges. New authors are
continually springing up, though few of them comparatively gain much
celebrity. The press is active, and the traffic in books is a lucrative and
most honorable branch of trade. Individuals have their libraries and the
government its collections. Of these there are catalogues, some of
which contain simply the titles of books with the names of their authors;
but others, in addition to the titles and names, give brief notices of their
contents, intimating in few words what each contains.
Of the imperial library at Pekin there are catalogues in both these
forms.
China has had, too, her Augustan age of poetry. But neither poetry
nor prose has assumed precisely the same forms as among the Greeks and
Romans. It is remarkable that this brilliant epoch in Chinese letters was
during the eighth century of our era, when almost the whole of Europe
was sunk in gross ignorance and barbarism. We subjoin a single
specimen of Chinese poetry, in a touching little piece, published in the
second volume of the Royal Asiatic Transactions, and written 3000 years
ago. Besides the pleasure its intrinsic beauty will afford, it offers a
convincing proof of the substantial identity of human feelings in all
times and countries. The piece bemoans the fate of a maiden, betrothed
to an humbler rival, but compelled to become the bride of a rich and
powerful suitor :-
1.
The nest yon winged artist builds,
Some robber bird shall tear away ;
So yields her hopes the affianced maid,
Some wealthy lord's reluctant prey.
51
2.
The fluttering bird prepares a home,
In which the spoiler soon shall dwell;
Forth goes the weeping bride, constrained,
A hundred cars the triumph swell.
3.
Mourn for the tiny architect,
A stronger bird hath ta'en its nest;
Mourn for the hapless, stolen bride,
How vain the pomp to soothe her breast!
THE FOLLOWING
CHINESE TALE,
LLUSTRATING THE PRINCIPLES OF
MUTUAL FRIENDSHIP AND FIDELITY,
Is from an Original Translation by Professor Kidd.
"Two persons named Paou and Kwan, who formerly lived in the state
Tse, were united by mutual poverty in the strongest bonds of friendship.
One of them, the disciple of a celebrated sage, having risen to honour in
the service of government, cordially recommended his friend to the office
of prime minister, under whom he still retained his subordinate station.
These two friends carried on the government with one heart and one
object. Among other matters of conversation, Kwan one day said to
Paou, "though I have fought three battles, and have been thrice defeated,
you do not treat me as a coward, but know that I have an aged mother,—
D 2
52
though I have been three times in office and as often expelled, you do
not deem me worthless, but are aware that I lacked opportunity :—from
your intercourse with me, you do not think me stupid, because you know
there are both hurtful and profitable seasons :-you and I have divided
much gain yet you know I am not avaricious, but poor; I owe my birth
to my father and mother, but you alone know me." It is now become
an adage of modern as well as ancient times, that Paou and Kwan
intimately knew each other's hearts.
There is a modern story of two friends, who, from one interview,
became brothers; each of whom for the other, sacrificed his life, and left
a name bearing the fragrance of all antiquity.
In the period of the Chun Tsew,* the prince of Tsoo, who honoured
literary persons and venerated good principles, summoned sages and
scholars to his presence. Among the vast multitudes whom the fame of
this edict reached, there was a scholar living in an obscure mountain in
Se-Keang named Pih-Taou, who, having lost his parents early, applied
all his energies to study, that he might cultivate talents for the benefit of
the world, and accumulate stores of learning to enable him to give
repose to the people. He was nearly 40 years old. The nobles (or
independent princes of China) were guilty of mutual spoliation and
robbery, few of whom exercised a benevolent rule, while many governed
by violence irrespective of all law.
Before he had entered on public duties, he heard that the Prince of
Tsoo, who was ardently attached to benevolence, and loved justice, was
in search of virtuous and able men to carry on his government. Pih,
forthwith collected a bag of books, took leave of his village friends, and
set out by the nearest way to Tsoo. He travelled onwards until he
arrived at a sequestered place, just about the time a severe storm of wind
and rain occurred. He had with him a leaf of the "Se-Keang-Yue,” †
which only spoke of
"A wintry sky and a cloudy prospect,-
An habitually keen wind
* A work of Confucius, comprising the history of the sixth century before the
Christian era.
+ Probably an ode of that title,
ม
53
And drizzling rain cut the face;
Small rain saturated the clothes :
Fierce hail and exciting snow-
Raise the cold incomparably
Beyond the temperature of other seasons.
Sombre hills conceal the sun's light,
Suddenly the dews disappear,
And the heaven wandering traveller *
Exerts himself to regain the road where
The wayfaring man responds to his complaint."
Pih travelled the whole day, during a storm of wind and rain, until his
clothes became thoroughly drenched; and as the heavens were still
black, he went to the nearest village to seek a lodging. When he had
walked some distance, he espied a broken window, through which the
light of a lamp was shining, in the midst of a clump of bamboos. He
immediately hastened to the spot, and perceived a thatched cottage,†
surrounded with a low fence, through which he passed, and gently
knocked at a billet-wood door. A person from within opened the door
and came out. Pih stood trembling beneath the eaves, and while in
trepidation and fear, he politely saluted the proprietor, informed him of
his name and surname, and whence he had come; that it was his inten-
tion to go to Tsoo, but the storm had intercepted his progress; that there
was no inn in those parts; that he had presumed to solicit the favour of
a night's lodgings, and waited to know whether his honour could
accommodate him. The owner of the cottage having heard the recital,
with nervous haste returned the ceremonies, and invited the stranger to
enter his dwelling. Pih observed the interior to be furnished with a
couch piled up with books, to the exclusion of every thing else; and
having ascertained that his host was a scholar, proceeded to offer him
homage suited to his rank; who, however, said, dont talk of cere-
monies, allow me first to dry your clothes at the fire, and then we can
converse together." While Pih was drying his clothes at the bamboo-
fire, his host provided wine and food on the most liberal scale; and in
* i. e. A person who has missed his way in the dark,
† Literally a grass house.
54
reply to the enquiries of his guest said, "my surname is Yang-chih, my
naine Keo-gae. I lost my father and mother in my youth, and dwell
here alone. I have all my life ardently loved study, but my patrimonial
estate is nearly exhausted. I am fortunate in meeting with a learned
gentleman from a distance, and am deeply grieved that the miserable
poverty of my hut affords no better treatment, for which I most humbly
crave your pardon." The guest replied: "Not only sheltered from
darkness and rain, but, moreover, amply supplied with food and drink ;
how can the remembrance of your favours ever be obliterated from my
heart ?" The two friends folded their feet and closed their eyes, but
talked generally on all the learning which their minds embraced, so
that they had no sleep all the night. Next morning, as the rain was
still unabated, Keo detained Pih at his house, and made him welcome to
all that he possessed.
Both mutually entered into covenant as brothers; and Pih, being
the senior by five years, received the homage due to an elder brother.
At the end of three days, the rain having ceased and the roads become dry,
the guest then said to his host,—“That you, my dear brother, who have
abilities to assist your sovereign, and a mind capable of comprehending
the most sublime theories,* should have no scheme but that of sweeten-
ing old age in the retirement of forests and mountains, is deeply to be
lamented." To whom Keo replied, "I have long ardently desired.
an official situation, but have never been fortunate enough to obtain
one." His friend said: “The king of Tsoo, a liberal-minded prince, is
now seeking ministers, had you not better go with me at once to his
court ?" He immediately prepared provisions for the journey, and left
his thatched cottage. Before they had travelled two days towards the
southern province, the weather became gloomy and wet, their money
failed, and they had but one wrapper of provisions left, which they
carried alternately, and braved the rain. A vehement wind soon arose,
and then a heavy storm of snow covered the whole heavens. To com-
prehend the scene, consider,-
* Literally,
the mind."
"to nourish, (as the womb embraces the fœtus) the silken theories of
55
"The wind's increase the snow's coldness,
The snow's rapidity, the wind's fierceness,
The flowers of the willows scattered in the whirlwind,
The goose's feathers dancing in confusion;
The eternal order of the firmament disturbed,
The points of the horizon undistinguished,
The earth overspread-the heavens covered with blackness,
Nature's beauty utterly destroyed.
Scenes which a poet might delight to study,
But which cause the traveller to sigh for death."
C
Having passed an open road which branched out of their path, the
two friends crossed over to Leang-shan, where they were told by some
woodmen, that for more than a hundred le they would not see the
smoke of a human habitation; that deep ravines and vast solitudes,
where fierce tigers herded together, was the only scenery they would
meet with, and that they would strongly advise them not to venture.
Pih asked Keo's opinion, who replied: "It is an ancient maxim,
Death and life are decreed.' Since we are come so far, by all means
advance. Never, while life remains, have to reproach yourself for
turning back." They travelled the whole day, and rested the following
night in an ancient tomb; where, through their thin clothing, the wind
penetrated their very bones. The next day the snow was still more
rigorous, and occupied every foot of space between the hills. Pih en-
dured the cold, merely remarking: "I think in travelling this hundred
le in search of a human dwelling, our provisions will fail. There
are clothes and food to supply one till he arrives at Tsoo, but if both
attempt to go, we shall assuredly die of hunger or cold; why perish on
the highway like grass and trees? I will strip myself of my clothing,
which you shall put on, and give you my share of the food, which will
enable you vigorously to prosecute your journey. I am incapable of
walking, and prefer death to further exertion. When you have had an
interview with the Prince, you will be sure to obtain a good appoint-
ment, and it will not then be too late to inter my body." Keŏ said,
"How is it possible I can assent to such a proposition? For, although
we are not children of the same parents, yet, as the noble principle by
56
which we are united, far excels natural relationship, how could I bear
to go alone in search of honour ?" Having positively refused his assent to
Pil's proposal; he took him on his back and proceeded on the journey.
Before they had travelled ten le, Pih said, "the wind and snow are in-
creasingly severe, how can we proceed?" In searching for a resting-
place by the road-side, they perceived an old mulberry-tree, capable
of affording shelter to one person. Keo, therefore, placed his companion
under it, who commanded him to strike a light from a stone, and make
a fire of the dead branches around, to protect them from the cold. Just
as he was approaching with a little fire, what should he see but the
naked body of his friend, who had stripped off all his clothing, and
folded it into a bundle by itself. Keo, in great terror exclaimed, my
venerable brother, what have you done!" Pih replied,
Pih replied, "I have been
puzzling my brain to find out a plan, but without success. Pray don't
interpose any objections. Make haste, put on these clothes, take the
food and go forward-I will wait here for death." Keo clasped him to
his embraces, and bursting into tears exclaimed, "we two will live and
d'e together; nothing shall ever separate us?" Pih said, "If we both
die of hunger, who will bury our bleached bones?" "Oh, if that be
your objection," returned the other, "I, with all my heart, will give the
food and clothes to you, as I should prefer death to life.” Pih said,
I have always been greatly afflicted, while you are a strong hale man ;
besides, in mental power I am far inferior to you, who, on obtaining an
interview with the Prince, will immediately receive a splendid appoint-
ment: my death is not worth mentioning: pray my brother do not
hesitate, it is your duty to go quickly." Keo said, "for the elder
brother to die under a mulberry-tree, and the younger alone to advance
to official honours, would be a most unrighteous thing,-I'll never con-
sent to it." Pih said, "I left my native hills and came a stranger to
your dwelling, where our first interview assumed all the characteristics
of ancient friendship; and perceiving the extraordinary properties of
your mind, I earnestly solicited you to seek promotion. Unfortunately
the opposing elements have conspired to seal my fate;-this is the
decree of heaven; but if you should die too, I shall be guilty of the
heinous crime of murder." So saying, he forthwith sought death by
57
attempting to leap into a mountain torrent. Keo caught him in his
arms, and with bitter lamentations, clothed him again, and carried him
to the mulberry-tree. Pih tore asunder his garments. Keo was about
to expostulate with him on his rashness, when he perceived his divine
countenance had changed, his four limbs were cold, while unable to
speak, he was beckoning with his hand for him to go. Keŏ again
wrapped his garments around him, his person was growing cold, the
man becoming mere abstraction, his hands were straight, his feet ex-
tended, his breath failed by degrees, and his life was about to terminate.
Keo suffered the deepest anxiety, but was aroused from his reflections
by thinking, if I thus indulge my sorrow, and die of cold, who will, after
my death, inter my venerable brother? He again and again prostrated
himself in the snow, and worshipped Pih, while in tears he exclaimed ;
your worthless younger brother in leaving you here hopes your secret
strength* will afford all needful assistance. If I can but acquire the
smallest fame, it will be my first concern to procure you an honorable
funeral:" Pih inclined his head as if about to reply, but in a few moments
expired. Keo gathered up his food and clothes, and turning his head
round every step of the way for some distance, pursued his journey in
lamentations and tears. Pih-taou's death beneath the mulberry, was the
occasion of the following elegy: †
"The cold had come, the snow was three feet deep,
When two the journey of a thousand le began—
The journey long, the snow severe, the cold intense :
Though ills yet trivial, till the rice-bag failed.
Food only enough for one's support,
If shared by two then both must die.
In two deaths what real advantage?
In one life there's infinite resource:
O, how virtuous Tso-Pih-taou! who
To perfect moral beauty sacrificed his life.
Keo braved the severity of the cold, and arrived at Tsoo half hungered
and almost destitute. Having rested at an inn in the suburbs till the
* Resources of merit in unpublished, unostentatious, deeds of virtue.
+ It consists in the original of ten stanzas five words each.
58
next day, he entered the city and enquired into the nature of the prince's
proclamation and the terms of admission into his service.
He was
shown to a hall outside the palace gates, prepared for the scholars of
the empire, who were applicants for office.
*
As the prime minister stepped out of his carriage at the moment Keŏ
entered the apartment, he immediately made his obeisance, which was
quickly answered by the officer, who perceived, notwithstanding his
tattered garments, that the stranger possessed superior abilities. On
enquiring whence he came, Keo told the officer his name and surname,
that he was a native of Yung-chow, that having heard virtuous men
were invited to enter the service of this eminent nation, he had come on
purpose to urge his claims. Pe-chung (the prime minister) introduced
him to the stranger's-hall, where he provided him with wine and food,
and a lodging for the night; and the next day removed all doubts
respecting the attainments of his guest, by testing their extent and
accuracy. Keŏ returned an appropriate answer to every question.*
His conversation flowed like a river, to the great delight of the minister,
who immediately announced him to his sovereign. The king summoned
the scholar to his presence, and sought his opinion on the sources of
national wealth and military power. Keo submitted to his majesty a
plan in ten sections, adapted to the exigencies of the state, with which
the king was so highly pleased, that he appointed Keo to the second
post in the kingdom; conferred on him an imperial banquet, besides
presents of a hundred taels of gold, and a hundred pieces of elegant
silk. Keo, in performing his prostrations wept much, which so alarmed
his majesty, that he desired to know the cause of his bitter grief. Kco
related one by one the incidents of his journey, especially how his com-
panion, having given him all his food and clothes, had died on the high-
way. The king was sensibly affected by this tale of woe, and, as well
as his ministers, deeply sympathized with Keo; who, perceiving his
majesty's concern, humbly craved leave of absence to attend the funeral
of his friend; after which he would return and ardently devote himself
to the service of his illustrious sovereign. The king acquiesced; and
* Literally,
to a hundred questions returned a hundred answers.
>>
59
conferred, as a posthumous honor, the rank of second Ta foo on
Pih-taon, besides allowing a munificent sum to pay the expences of his
funeral, and ordering attendants and horsemen to accompany Keo's
chariot. The minister immediately took leave of his majesty, and went
to the neighbourhood of Leang-shan, in search of the decayed mulberry-
tree. Having found the body of his friend, he perceived the form of
his countenance to be in every respect the same as when he was alive,
and prostrated himself before it weeping. His attendants then assembled
all the old men and fathers of the village to examine by divination the
sources of the lakes and streams, and then pursuing the high land adjoin-
ing, examined all the surrounding hills, and found the wind and water in
the highest degree propitious.* They forthwith washed and perfumed
Pih's body; and having clothed it in official robes and a cap of the rank
recently conferred upon it, placed it in an inner and outer coffin, and
peacefully buried it. A tomb was then raised over the grave, surrounded
by a mud wall, and planted with trees at the distance of thirty paces.
An incense temple was also built, and a molten image in the likeness
of Pih was placed on the top of an ornamented pillar.† The erection of
a triumphal arch, and a house covered with tiles at the side of the wall,
for the keeper of the tomb, completed the preparations. Afterwards
sacrifices were offered in the temple of incense with much lamentation
and weeping, in which all the old men of the village joined. When
the sacrifices were ended, all dispersed but Keo, who, with a lighted
lantern and burning candles, sat down to observe the vigils uttering
incessant moans and sighs. Suddenly there was the howling of a
dark tempest, during which the lights of the candles were extinguished
and again restored. Keo examined the phenomenon, and perceived a
man in the shade of the lamp, now dancing, then retiring with sup-
pressed sobs and choked tears. Keo called out, "Who on this sacred
night dares to come here?" There was no answer. Keo rising up to
look at him, saw it was Pih-taou, and, in great alarm, said, “there must
* i. e. On the principles of Chinese geomancy the aspect was favorable.
† A pillar made of stone designated a flowery token or guide, which is a usual or-
namcut of tombs.
60
*
be a cause why my brother's hades-spirit should be so near as to come
and see me."
Pih replied, 'I am penetrated with gratitude by your remem-
brance of me immediately on your elevation to office; from whose
successful petition I have derived official rank, beautiful shrouds, sub-
stantial coffins,† and a most splendid funeral, so perfect, as to leave
me nothing to desire. The only cause of regret is, that my tomb
adjoins King-ko's, a man put to death for murder, and interred
here, whose spirit, rampant with vindictiveness, comes every night
brandishing a sword, and reviling me as a common fellow, who
died of hunger and cold by the road-side, and has had the pre-
sumption to build a tomb on his shoulders, and spoil his wind and
water. He moreover threatens, if my body is not removed, to break
open the grave and throw it into the desert. I thought it right to make
a special communication of these circumstances of danger and difficulty
to my beloved brother, hoping that he will deliver me from so awful a
calamity by changing my place of sepulture." Keo was about to make
further inquiries, but a wind arose and his friend disappeared. In the
temple he dreamt of these circumstances under the greatest excitement,
and the next morning called together the elders of the village, and en-
quired whether there was another tomb on this spot. He was told
King-ko's was beneath the pine, in front of which a temple is built. He
asked, what right a man executed for murder had to be interred there ?
They replied, "When the proprietor of the soil (Kaou-tseen) knew his
The Chinese theory of spirits is ;-that each man has three, one of which is
designated as in the text. Of the phrase San Hwan, "three souls," which probably
refers to the Ling, the Hwan, and the Pih, I received, says Professor Kidd, the follow-
ing illustration from a Chinese :-"At death, one of these spirits remains in the
house as its protector, to which incense is daily offered by the surviving members of
the family; another becomes guardian divinity of the sepulchre, to whose honor a
small stone tablet is erected, with an inscription on it, meaning, 'happy spirit-
guardian of the tomb-spirit behind,' or some similar phrase; the third passes into the
invisible state, to receive honors and offerings rendered by its worshippers on a platform
of stone prepared for their accommodation at the head of the grave."-See Professor
Kidd's China, p. 171-2.
†The Chinese always use an inner and an outer coffin in burial.
61
*
sufferings and the indignities to which his corpse was exposed in the
desert, he secretly buried it in this place. He also renders constant
homage to the soul, while the men of the district have built a temple in
which sacrifices are offered, at each of the four seasons to procure happi-
ness and prosperity." Keo then believed in the reality of the circumstan-
ces seen in his dream, and led his attendants by the nearest way to
King's temple, when he addressed the following remonstrance to the
spirit,—“ You are a common fellow of the province of Yen, descended
from the prince's concubine; who when entrusted with official power,
abused it in abetting schemes by which you betrayed your country,
and lost your life; and now you are come here to alarm and excite
the people of the village by seeking their sacrifices. My brother Tso-
pih-taou, whom you have dared to disturb, is the most famous
scholar of his age, and withal distinguished for his benevolence, justice,
political uprightness, and moral purity; and if you do so again, I will
destroy this temple, break up the tomb, and cut off for ever your parental
stem. After these threatenings he came direct to Pih's tomb, before
which he pronounced blessings, and said, "If King-ko comes to-night,
inform me." He then retired to the incense temple for the night, bearing
a candle for the vigils, when Pih came with sobs and tears that almost
choked his utterance, and said, "I thank you, my dear brother, for
what you have done, but as King's followers are very numerous, and all
the men of the district worship him, you ought to make grass effigies in
the form of men, clothe them in gay coloured garments, furnish them
with swords and other weapons of war, and set them on fire before the
tomb. With such aid I shall not suffer from King's attacks." After
these words he disappeared. Keo employed persons that night to make
effigies of grass clothed in splendid apparel, and holding swords, spears,
and other military weapons; and having placed them in great numbers
near the tomb, burned them with fire, blessing his friend, and requesting
to be informed if these efforts were still fruitless. He then went to the
temple, and heard in the night a sound of wind and rain like persons
fighting. He went out, and Pih ran to him in' great haste, and said,
"The effigies you burnt have not answered their purpose. King and
*Literally, makes it splendid or glorious.
62
Kaou-tseen have united, and will before long eject my body from the
tomb. I hope you will remove it to another place to avoid this ca-
lamity." Keo said, "How dare this wretch thus insult my brother? I
will aid you with all my strength to fight him." Pih replied, "You
are a man of the light.* I am wholly a spirit of darkness.† Now,
although you have never so much valour and energy as a man clothed
with flesh, yet, since there is an impassable barrier between this dusty
world and the invisible state, how can you contend with unclothed spirits?
and though you have effigies, they can only aid by invocation, but cannot
withdraw this turbulent fiend." Keo said, “You may now retire, and I
The next day he went to Kings'
will come daily from my retreat.”
temple in a great rage, destroyed his spiritual image, and was about to
set fire to the building, when the elders of the people came and patheti-
cally besought him to desist from his purpose. This (said they) is the
sacred fire of the whole village; if you violate it, destruction and misery
will overtake the inhabitants." In a moment they were joined by multi-
tudes more, in supplication and intercession. Keo acceded to their re-
quest. He then returned to the temple of sacrifice, and wrote a letter to
his majesty to the following purport. Pih-taou's provision and clothes
supplied your minister with the means of preserving life until he had an
interview with your sacred majesty, who conferred honours on him suf-
ficiently distinguished to satisfy a whole life. Permit your minister,
through future ages, to exhaust his mind in plans expressive of the most
intense gratitude for your majesty's favours." He gave the letter to his
attendants, went to Pih's tomb, and covered the whole area with his
tears. My brother (he said) is suffering under the tyranny of King's
audacious spirit without any prospect of emancipation-conduct which I
cannot bear, and therefore wish to burn his temple and destroy his tomb;
* As expressed by the Chinese—“ a masculine man.
+ A feminine spirit.
The terms employed for the above are Yin and Yang, signifying male (Yang), and
female (Yin), "light and darkness, perfection and imperfection, manifestation and
obscurity, good and evil, the source of existence and the cause of decay." Every thing
masculine is invested with the highest excellence, every thing feminine treated with the
most contemptuous disdain.-See Professor Kidd's China, p. 137, 138.
63
*
but, as I fear to oppose the people of the district, I would rather die, and
become a spirit beneath the springs, where I can effectually aid my .
brother, by fighting this turbulent demon. Bury my corpse on the right
of his tomb, that, sharing the same place with him in death and life, I
may requite his benevolence. Return to Tsoo; state the case to the
prince; earnestly beseech his majesty to listen to my words, and eter-
nally protect the gods of the mountains and rivers." When he had done
speaking, he drew his sword from his belt, cut his throat, and almost in-
stantly expired. His attendants strove to save him, but were too late.
In great haste they prepared his coffins and shrouds, and buried him by
the side of Pih-taou. The same night, about the second watch, a vehe-
ment storm of wind and rain arose, accompanied by terrific thunder and
lightning, the effects of which extended for many miles around. King's
tomb shook as if agitated by an earthquake. His white bones were scat-
tered in the wind, the firs and pines were uprooted at its side, while a fire
broke out within the temple, which consumed it to ashes. The old men
of the village were thrown into the greatest consternation, and went in
procession to the tombs of our heroes to burn incense and perform acts
of devotion. The attendants returned home, and laid all these circum-
stances before his majesty, who thanked them for their fidelity, and sent
officers to build a temple to Keo, on whom he conferred the posthumous
honour of Ta-foo, of the first rank, and dictated the following inscription
for the temple : "A sacrifice to faithfulness and integrity." He then
raised a monument, on which all these events were recorded; and to
this period incense is perpetually burned, whilst from that hour King's
spirit was cut off. The inhabitants of the district offer, at the four sea-
sons, sacrifices and prayers which are in the highest degree felicitous.
An ancient Ode says:-
"The venerable principles of benevolence and justice
Comprehend the heavens and the earth,
And dwell within the human bosom.
Before the temples of our two scholars
The autumnal sun serenely shines;
Their heroic spirits are associated
Beneath the cold light of the moon."
An expression for Hades.
1
64
The fourth principal figure in this case, is a mandarin of the fourth
class, seated on a portable chair, called by the natives "Ma chă." The
costume of this mandarin is far inferior to those of the two principal
figures in CASE No. I, his long silk petticoat is fastened round the waist
by means of a belt, which is united in front by a clasp. The visitor
will notice a variety of accoutrements attached to this belt, rather military
in their appearance, but not at all so in reality. In fact, a Chinese never
goes armed, as the jealousy of the government has denied the privilege.
of wearing arms to all except the soldiers on parade. The appendages
referred to are, therefore, altogether peaceful, such as a silk fan-sheath,
embroidered tobacco-pouches, &c. The cap is cone-shaped, but not
turned up at the edge; having crimson silk, pendant from the crown-
ing ball. This is a summer cap.
This officer is attentively listening to the fable, and is apparently in
the full enjoyment of that calm and tranquil state of mind, which the
almost universal custom of smoking tobacco is thought to produce. The
servant is standing behind his superior, and presenting to him a red-
covered official document. He is attired in a gown and spencer of dark
nankeen, the common material of the dresses of the lower orders.
CASE IV.
No. 16. CHINESE LADY OF RANK, WITH FAN.
17. ANOTHER LADY PREPARING TO SMOKE.
18.
ANOTHER WITH A GUITAR.
19 & 20. Two FEMALE DOMESTICS.
21 & 22.
23.
MOTHER AND BOY OF THE MIDDLE CLASS,
DAUGHTER OF THE ABOVE.
CHINESE TABLE, HANDSOMELY CARVED, GILT, AND PAINTED.
SPECIMEN OF CITRON, OR FINGER FRUIT. (Citrus Sacodactylus.)
SUPERBLY EMBROIDERED SILK SCREEN TO DOor.
LANTERNS SUSPENDED FROM THE CEILING.
The fourth case introduces us to a group of Chinese beauties. We
have here three ladies of rank, in full costume. Their hair, which
65
is turned up on the back of the head in bunches, and fastened with two
bodkins crosswise, is gaily adorned with wreaths of flowers. There
is considerable variety in their dresses, but they are all of the richest
materials, and magnificently embroidered. They are exceedingly modest
and becoming, concealing entirely the contour of the person. The expo-
sure which fashion allows to European and American ladies, would be
regarded by the Chinese women as a flagrant offence against true
modesty. The Golden water lilies," Kin-leen" as the small feet
are called, figure, we cannot say "largely," but interestingly, in these fair
Their hands are very delicate; their eyebrows gracefully arched;
their features regular and oval; their noses too flat for beauty; but the
whole countenance, though rather pretty, and certainly not unamiable, is
deficient in strength of expression. Their occupations are characteristic;
one of them is fingering a guitar, another is smoking, while the third
is amusing herself with a fan. From the waist depends the never absent
tobacco-pouch, elegant in material, form, and workmanship. Each has
three plain rings in either ear. The footstools upon which their "golden
lilies" rest, are covered with embroidered silk.
ones.
This case also contains two female domestics, Nos. 19 & 20, with feet
of the natural size. One of them is bringing tea to her mistress, in a
cup with a saucer-like cover, having just entered through a door-way,
from the lintel of which hangs a superbly embroidered silk screen reach-
ing down to the threshold, which is common in China. The usual
mode of making tea in China, is to place a few leaves in each cup, and
pour boiling water upon them. The cups are always provided with tops,
to preserve the delicate aroma of the tea, and the infusion is drank
without admixture of any kind, and invariably weak.
The lanterns suspended from the ceiling of this and the adjoining
case (No. 5) are of a different character from those displayed in any
other part of the saloon. They are constructed of a light frame-work
of wire, and are covered with a thin gauze, glazed with the tenacious
jelly or glue, made from the Gigartina tenax, a marinc fucus, brought to
China from the Indian Archipelago. These whimsical devices are gaily
painted, and represent fishes, birds, &c.
The women of China, as in all other countries not blessed with chris-
E
66
tianity, occupy a rank in society far inferior to that of the men. Never-
theless, their place on the social scale is higher, their influence greater,
and their treatment, better than can be affirmed of the sex in any other
Asiatic nation. Of school education the mass receive none, though there
are occasionally shining exceptions; but Gutzlaff ascribes to them, the
possession of a large share of common sense, and says that they make
devoted wives and tender mothers.
With regard to the prevailing opinion of the existence of the infanti-
cide of female children, which has very naturally exposed this people to
severe censure, we have already quoted positive evidence of a strong
maternal feeling on the part of Chinese mothers towards their offspring.
It is now believed by many that former writers have very much over-
rated the facts, if not altogether mistaken accidental deaths by drowning,
for wilful intent.
If such a practice positively prevailed to any great extent, is it at all
likely that the government of China, ever mindful to preserve the mil-
lions of its subjects, and jealous of its power, should altogether overlook
this subject?—and yet it is not anticipated by, nor is it even men-
tioned in their penal code. We do not pretend to deny that in occa-
sional instances, infanticide does exist, but cases of this kind occur
only in populous cities, and where the extreme poverty of the parents,
and the difficulty of procuring a livelihood, denies the hope of the poorest
inhabitants being able to support their increasing family. The instances
at Canton, (a very crowded and populous place) of the bodies of
infants being seen floating are not frequent, and may reasonably, in some
cases, be attributed to accident, where such multitudes are brought up
from their birth in small boats. There never was a more absurd
blunder than to charge to infanticide those instances in which the
infants are found floating with a hollow gourd about their persons, as
if the gourd were a part of the system of exposure! The very pre-
sence of the gourd goes to prove the accident, and not the intentional
design.
Notwithstanding the low estimation in which females are held in China
in common with other Asiatic countries, their respectability is in some
degree prescrved by a certain extent of authority allowed to widows over
67
their sons, and by the homage which these are obliged to pay to their
mothers.
The emperor himself performs the ceremonies of the Ko-tow before
his own mother, who receives them seated on a throne. The Chinese
have a maxim that a woman is thrice dependant; before marriage, on
her father;—after marriage, on her husband;-when a widow, on her
son;"—but this appears to mean, principally, with reference to support
and subsistence.
In the education of females, the first object of attention is their virtue;
the second, their language; the third, their deportment; and the fourth,
their appropriate employment.
A modest demeanour so essential in the education of a Chinese lady
of the higher class, is heightened by their mode of dressing, which
is frequently of rich and costly materials, and in fashion extremely
graceful.
Among ladies of high birth it is considered indecorous to show even
their hands, and in their general movements these are invariably covered
by their large sleeves. The fingers are long and taper, and in some
instances the nails are allowed to grow to a length far beyond our ideas
of what is either becoming or beautiful.
The generality of Chinese ladies cannot boast of great beauty. They
make a free use of rouge, and this article is always among the presents to
a bride on the occasion of her nuptials. The distinguishing marks of
personal attractions among the Chinese, in a gentleman are, a large
person, inclining to corpulency, a full glossy face, and large pendant ears ;
the latter indicating high breeding and fortune. In females it is nearly
the reverse, delicate forms are in them highly esteemed, having slender
willow waists." The eyes are termed "silver seas;" the eye-brows are
frequently removed, and in their stead a delicately curved pencil line is
drawn, resembling the leaf of the willow" Lew shoo," which is considered
beautiful, and used metaphorically for "Pleasure." Hence the saying—
deceived and stupified by willows and flowers;" i. e. by dissolute
pleasures.
r
In the estimation of the Chinese, however, a beautiful female should
possess the following attractions :-" Cheeks red as the almond flower—
£ 2
68
mouth like the peach's bloom-waist slender as the willow leaf-eyes
bright as autumnal ripples, and footsteps like the flowers of the water-
lily."
These are a few of the metaphors used by the Chinese to describe
beauty; the figure of autumnal ripples alludes to the dancing reflection
of the sun upon a ruffled lake; the impression of the small feet of a
Chinese lady in the path is supposed to resemble the flowers of their
favorite lotus.
In what circumstances the "golden lilies," the highest of per-
sonal attractions, originated, is not known. It is said, that it arose
in the time of the Woo-tae, or five dynasties, that Le-how-choo ordered
his concubine, Yaou, to bind her foot with silk and cause it to appear
small, and in the shape of the new moon.
The distortion is pro-
duced by turning the toes under the soles of the feet when young, and
confining them in that position by tight bandages, till their growth is
effectually checked. The bandaging is continued for several years, during
which the poor child suffers the most excruciating tortures.
This is, no
doubt, an absurd, cruel, and wicked practice; but those who dwell in
glass houses should not throw stones. It is not a whit worse, nay, we
maintain that it is less irrational and injurious, than the practice of
tight lacing. In compressing the feet, no vital part is attacked, no func-
tions disordered; and on the score of taste, if the errors of Nature are
to be rectified, and her graceful lines and proportions improved, we see
not why the process of amendment may not be as reasonably applied to
the feet as to the waist. Almost every family in China, however poor,
has one daughter with the small feet, else she could not become a
FIRST wife.
"At the age of five years, a late writer remarks, a child has her feet so
firmly bound, that, in the native phrase, the whole is killed." The agony
of such a process it would be difficult to estimate, but it lasts during the
wasting of all the parts, and till the cessation of many of their functions
have rendered the whole insensible to pain. This latter is perhaps con-
fined to the outer parts, for the high priest of the Honan temple stated,
that his sister suffered much anguish in the sole of her foot, or rather in
its lower and more central parts.
69
To the same enquiries as to whether the practice of destroying the
foot was not attended with similar evils in after-life, he said No;' and
as he was a man of intelligence, his opinion may be relied on. Among
the multitudes that come for health and cure to the hospitals in Canton,
no one has yet been met with, whose ailments could be imputed to this
custom.
A foot two inches in length is the idol of a Chinaman, on which he
lavishes the most precious epithets which nature and language can
supply. But its beauties are altogether ideal for when stripped of its
gay investments, it is a piteous mass of lifeless integument, which
resembles the skin of a washerwoman's hand after it has undergone a
maceration in soap and water. But fancy has played her part so well,
that this piece of ruined nature, which is seldom or perhaps never seen
re The
by men, is treated as the prime essential of all feminine beauty.
foot of a native woman," said I to a Chinese acquaintance, "is very
handsome, so that it is a great pity to spoil it." He smiled with much
satisfaction at the compliment, but would only allow that it interfered
with the gait; "They cannot walk so well," was the amount of his
concession in my favour. He was so blessed as not to know the real
state of this organ, and therefore his admiration had no alloy. To
shew that there is something like masonic secresy about this small foot,
I need only mention that on one occasion the servant, when her mistress
proceeded to unwind the bandages, blushed, and turned her face to
the wall.
In walking, the body of females reels from side to side, so as never to
appear upright. When seen in the streets, they are generally supported
by a little girl, or have the assistance of a walking stick. Right
lines and perpendiculars are proscribed by the rules for regulating
the carriage of the body, as well as by the canons of pictorial beauty.
The management of the fan by ladies in China, the land of its nati-
vity, is conducted with an address and propriety that give a force to
every thing that is eloquent, either in speaking or acting. Closed or
thrown open by a single movement, it gives a smartness to the ebbs
and flows of conversation. A soft waving accompanies the feelings of
tranquility; when held obliquely before the face, it is to hide the smile
70
of affection from the half dispairing lover; and thus we might follow it
through all the evolutions of the heart and the understanding, as they
influence the outward conduct.
Constancy, habit of respect, and the social feeling, seem to present
themselves in the light of easy recognition in the female character.
Chinese stories are full of examples of love that know no limits.
There is only one heaven," said a forlorn maiden, when her parents
upbraided her for spending her days in sorrowful libations of salt tears
at the tomb of her lover;" and he was that heaven to me!" The
deep well and flowing stream have often borne a melancholy witness to
the indissoluble nature of female affection.
But the consecrated stories of Chinese antiquity will not, perhaps,
furnish a more pleasing specimen of this sort of constancy than the
following :-In one of the Dutch settlements among the Islands of the
Indian Archipelago, a gentleman of high standing in the community, lost
a much loved wife, which rendered home so melancholy to him, that he
forsook it, and endeavored to pass away the heavy hours of mourning
among the solaces of kind friends. Among his acquaintances was the
alderman of the Chinese ward, or Kampong, who, with the true urbanity
of his native country, invited the disconsolate husband to spend the
evenings at his house in some of the social games for which China is so
distinguished.—The host being childless, had adopted his niece, and had
brought her up with all the tenderness and hopes of a fond parent, the
visitor often saw the young lady on these occasions, and felt it no more
than a matter of good breeding towards the foster-father to notice the
object of his esteem. Words of civility were soon exchanged into
terms of love, and an accidental acquaintance ripened into a well
founded friendship. As soon as the uncle found what had taken place,
he forbade the continuance of these visits, feeling, perhaps, that if his
niece and foster-child should marry a foreigner, his name would be put
out, and his posterity cut off, or be merged in an alien stock. Diffi-
culties however are often but the mere incentives to action, and so the
lover forthwith sent a message by one of the young lady's female friends,
in which he advised her to make her escape from the uncle's roof.
She replied, that for the sake of him she was willing to make any

TILKE.
A
Dat
71
sacrifice, but she dreaded a curse which her offended relatives might
invoke upon her, and therefore she could not come.
Here an effectual
bar was placed in the way of their union, and the uncle
seemed to have
But, alas! for
gained his point without the possibility of miscarriage.
all his designs, Missy would neither eat bread nor drink water; and in
this resolution she persisted till her friends saw only this alternative; a
marriage with the foreigner, or the grave, and, as the least of the two
evils, were compelled to choose the former. There was only one
stipulation insisted on and gained by the uncle, which was this—that
during the life of himself or the aunt, the niece should not quit her
foster-home. In compliance with this condition, the husband was
obliged to take up his abode in a Chinese dwelling; and here it was that
the writer of these remarks had first the pleasure of an interview.
one of our rides he kindly told me this little story of his courtship.
In
At the conclusion of it, I was very anxious to know what sort of a
companion he had found her; for, thought I, the ladies who are bred
and brought up in such sequestered spots, where they have nothing to
think of save the adornment of their own persons, or the little gossip of
the neighbourhood, can never indulge a thought about anything beyond
their own gratification; so I asked him if she took any interest in his
enterprises. He answered, "Yes-the greatest; there is nothing that
can give me either pleasure or pain which escapes her anxiety."
A native of the United States married a Chinese female, who had
never felt the benefits of education, and therefore could scarcely have
learnt to cultivate this sentiment by lessons from those who were older
than herself. She followed her husband to America, and afterwards
back again to Macao, where a friend of the writer's paid her lord a
visit. On his return, I asked him how she demeaned herself towards
her better half; With great respect," was the answer. And this
reply was not a solitary testimonial in her favour. The short story of
this female seems to shew that the feeling of respect is a natural gift;
and though it is, in all instances, cherished by the fashion and received
opinions of the country, it is even in the most unfavorable cases ready
to expand itself spontaneously. Every thing we see among the poorer
sort of people has some reference to this habit.
72
Head-dresses of natural and artificial flowers are always worn. No
woman is so poor as to neglect, or so aged as to give up adorning herself
in this manner. The culture of flowers for this purpose is a regular
occupation throughout the country.
The Chinese ladies in dressing their hair, make use of shavings cut
from resinous wood, which being dipped in warm water the gum
is drawn out and diluted, and then by applying them to the hair, the
formation required is effected, as in the figures here represented.
Wives are distinguished from unmarried females, by the latter allowing
the hair near the forehead to hang down towards the eye-brows, as in the
figure of the young girls in this case, while the former have theirs bound
together upon the crown of the head.
Among the accomplishments of the Chinese ladies, music, painting on
silk, and embroidery, hold the chief places. The musical instruments are
various in kind and material, and a supply of them is held to be an indis-
pensable part of the furniture of a lady's boudoir. Painting on silk
is a very common recreation; and embroidery is an almost universal
accomplishment.
The two colours, pink and green, so frequently worn by women, are
confined exclusively to them, and are never seen in the dresses of men.
The ordinary dress of females is a large-sleeved robe of silk, or of cotton
among the poorer classes, over a longer garment, sometimes of a pink,
or other showy color, under which are loose trousers, which are fastened
round the ankle, just above the small foot and tight shoe.
A proverbial expression among the Chinese, for the concealment of de-
fects, is, "Long robes to hide large feet." Notwithstanding this, the
Tartar women, or their lords, have had the good sense to preserve the
ladies' feet of the natural size. In other respects, however, they dress
nearly as the Chinese, and paint their faces white and red in the same
style as their neighbours.
73
CASE V.
No. 24.
TRAGEDIAN IN SPLENDID COSTUME.
25 & 26. TWO JUVENILE ACTORS, TO PERFORM
CHARACTERS.
27. CHINESE JUGGLER.
PARASOL USED ON STATE OCCASIONS,
THE PART OF FEMALE
MAGNIFICENT SPECIMEN OF EMBROIDERED TAPESTRY.
NUMEROUS SPECIMENS OF THEATRICAL CAPS ON THE WALL.
In the fifth case we have a specimen of Chinese theatricals. There are
three figures of actors, an adult and two children, a Chinese Juggler, a
gorgeous statę parasol, a number of theatrical caps, and a sample of
embroidered tapestry. The costume of the Chinese stage is sufficiently
appropriate to the characters represented, and on most occasions ex-
tremely splendid. Gay silks and embroidery are lavished on the dresses
of the actors, and as most of the serious plays are historical, and for
obvious reasons do not touch on events that have occurred since the
Tartar conquest, the costume, as in the case of the tragedian here
represented shows the ancient dress of China, which in females, is nearly
the same now as ever; but, as regards men, very different. The dresses
and adornments of the actors here represented, are of rich materials
and elegantly wrought with gold thread. The splendour of Chinese
theatrical wardrobes was remarked by Ysbrandt Ides, the Russian am-
bassador, as long ago as 1692.
First entered a very beautiful lady, magnificently dressed in cloth
of gold adorned with jewels, and a crown on her head, singing her
speech in a charming voice and agreeable motion of the body, playing
with her hands, in one of which she held a fan. The prologue thus
performed, the play followed; the story of which turned upon a Chinese
Emperor, long since dead, who had behaved himself well towards his
country, and in honor of whose memory the play was written., Some-
times he appeared in royal robes, with an ivory sceptre in his hand,
74
and sometimes his officers showed themselves with ensigns, arms,
drums," &c.
As the Chinese make no regular distinction between tragedy and
comedy in their stage pieces, the claims of these to either title must be
determined by the subject and the dialogue. The line is in general
pretty strongly marked; in the former by the historical or mythological
character of the personages, the grandeur and gravity of the subject,
the tragical drift of the play, and the strict award of what is called
poetical justice; in the latter, by the more ordinary or domestic grade
of the dramatis persona, the display of ludicrous characters and inci-
dents, and the interweaving of jests into the dialogue. Some of their
stage pieces are doubtless of a vulgar and indecent description; but
these in general constitute the amusement of a particular class of society,
and are generally adapted to the taste of those who call for them at pri-
vate entertainments.
The avowed object of the Chinese stage is the promotion of virtue
among the people, although, as in their writings, they frequently do
great injury to the cause of morality by the manner in which they repre-
sent vice.
The principal work of the Chinese drama is the Yuen jin pih chung,
"The hundred plays of the Yuen dynasty," in forty-two octavo
volumes. Many of the pieces in this work are set to music.
The moral writers of China frequently warn their readers against the-
atrical performances, and prohibit females from even witnessing them.
Their dramatic productions are generally published without the names
of the authors, as this is not considered a very respectable department
of literature in Chinese estimation.
The origin of the drama is ascribed to an emperor of the Tang dynasty
in the eighth century. It was then designated ""The tradition of wonders"
-afterwards, "Plays and Songs;" and during a still later dynasty,
"Original miscellaneous comedies of the Palace."
Theatrical exhibitions are favourite amusements of the Chinese, and
as among the ancient Greeks and Romans, they are chiefly, in China,
connected with religion; the female characters being generally per-
formed by boys, to the total exclusion of women on the Chinese stage.
75
The estimation in which they are held may be inferred from a single
fact.
The money expended upon them in one year at Macao, a place
where there are but few wealthy Chinese, amounted to nearly seven
thousand dollars.
sary
On some particular days the mandarins themselves supply the neces-
funds. In Canton, for example, the inhabitants of a certain quarter
club together and make up a purse, with which a company is engaged.
A temporary theatre is erected, and the whole neighbourhood at liberty to
attend. When the quid pro quo has been rendered by the actors, they
move off to another quarter, and the same thing is repeated. It is
customary to employ actors at private entertainments, which are never
considered complete without a theatrical exhibition. Upon such occasions
a list of plays is handed to the most distinguished guest, who selects
whichever most accords with his fancy. The principal inns and all large
private establishments have a room expressly for this purpose.
It is remarkable that there are no regular theatres, but temporary
buildings constructed with surprising facility of bamboo poles and mats,
are erected in front of their temples, or in open spaces in their towns,
the spectacle being continued for several days at a time. The actors are
literally vagabonds, strolling about from city to city, and from province
to province, whose merit and rank in their [profession, and consequently
their pay, vary according to circumstances.
The best performers are those who come from Nankin, and who
sometimes receive considerable sums for performing at the private enter-
tainments given by rich persons to their friends.
6
They have no scenical deception (observes the editor of the “ Heir in
old age,") to assist the story, as in the modern theatres of Europe; and
the odd expedients to which they are sometimes driven by the want of
scenery, are not many degrees above Nick Bottoms' bush of thorns
and a lantern, to disfigure or to present to the person of Moonshine,' or
the man with some plaster, or some loam, or some rough-cast about
him to signify wall.'"
·
Thus, a general is ordered upon an expedition to a distant province;
he brandishes a whip, or takes in his hand the reins of a bridle, and
76
striding three or four times round the stage in the midst of a tremend-
ous crash of gongs, drums, and trumpets, he stops short, and tells the
audience where he has arrived. A tolerable judgment may be formed
of what little assistance the imaginations of an English audience for-
merly derived from scenical deception, by the state of the drama and the
stage as described by Sir Philip Sidney, about the year 1583. "Now
you shall have three ladies walk to gather flowers, and then we must
believe the stage to be a garden. By and by we have news of ship-
wreck in the same place; then we are to blame if we accept it not for
a rock.
Upon that comes out a hideous monster with fire and smoke ;
and then the miserable beholders are bound to take it for a cave; while
in the mean time two armies fly in, represented with four swords
and bucklers, and then what hard heart will not take it for a pitched
field ?"
Visitors will perceive in the figure of the Juggler, one of a large class
of persons, who obtain a precarious livelihood by an exhibition of feats of
dexterity and legerdemain. Jugglers are numerous in the streets of
Canton, and are as varied in caste as the different feats they perform. The
person here represented ranks high in his profession. On his head is
placed a porcelain jar, having a narrow mouth. This jar is so nicely
poised in an angular position, that the slightest movement of the Jug-
gler's head, or even the relaxation of a muscle, would cause a fall of the
fragile burthen. In the right hand of the artiste are several pieces of
bamboo, each about two feet in length. The main object to be achieved
by the juggler, is, while he is standing perfectly still, to throw these
pieces of bamboo to a great height with his left hand, in such a direc-
tion that they all fall into the jar. This manoeuvre requires immense
practice and steadiness, both of the eye and hand.
The amusements of a people have ever been regarded as indications,
to a certain extent, of national character, denoting their boldness,
simplicity, or frivolity. Thus, the bull-fights of Spain, the boxing
matches and prize fights of England, and the juggling and sports of
China, are all in harmony with the chief, but widely different traits of
those nations where they are adopted as recreations. With this view,
we proceed to mention a few other exploits of the most adroit Chinese
77
exhibiters to the wondering crowd. A man produces from a basket the
stuffed skin of a rat; this he exhibits to the multitude, and convinces them
that it is exactly what he represents it to be. By placing the throat of
the supposed animal between his finger and thumb, and pinching it, the
jaws of the rat are forced open, and so exactly will the juggler imitate
the squeak of a choking rat, that an observer, particularly if he be a
foreigner, will at once suspect that he had been deceived as to the want
of vitality in the apparently tortured animal before him. With a sin-
gularity and quickness of motion altogether admirable, the exhibiter
tosses it about his person, giving it the exact semblance of a rat
endeavouring to escape from the fangs of the destroyer; and at the
same time uttering such piercing and natural cries of distress, that the
beholder is at last only convinced of the man's skill in ventriloquism,
by an examination of the inanimate skin.
The following scene occurred in the drawing room of a foreign
resident in Canton. Two jugglers were introduced before the company
assembled; after going through a number of surprising feats of skill and
agility, one of these men handed to the other a large china basin.
This basin, after a few flourishes above his head, and being turned
upside down to convince the spectators that it was empty, the exhibiter
suddenly allowed it to fall, but caught it before it reached the floor.
This movement brought him into a position resting upon his heels,
the basin being now hidden from view by the folds of his garments. In
that attitude he remained for a few seconds, with hands extended, but in
no way touching the basin. With a sudden spring he stood upright, and
displayed to the astonished spectators the basin filled to the brim with
pure clear water, and two gold fishes swimming in their native element.
Another feat worthy of record, is one of a more exciting and thrilling
nature. To be impressed on the mind with full effect, it should be seen
under circumstances similar to those which attended the exhibition of it
to the relater. Passing a motley crowd of persons in a public square
near the foreign factories, the writer had his attention directed to a man
apparently haranguing the bye-standers. Prompted by curiosity, he
soon found the performer to be a mean-looking person, who divested
himself of his outer clothing as far as the waist. He spread a small mat
78
upon the pavement, and taking a boy from the crowd, who was after-
wards discovered to be his confederate; he placed him in the centre of
the rush mat. He then took from his basket a large butcher's knife,
which he flourished over the head of the frightened boy, and with
dreadful threats sprang upon his victim. The boy was thrown down,
and the man knelt on him in such a manner as to secure his hands.
While in this position, he forced back the head of the poor child, and
with the knife inflicted a severe gash upon his throat, from which the
blood instantly gushed in a torrent, flowing down the breast of the
murderer, and sprinkling the nearest spectators. The death-throes of
the poor sufferer were painful to behold; frightful and convulsive in
their commencement, but diminishing with the loss of blood. The eye-
balls start-the muscles are seen to work-there are twitches of the
fingers-desperate efforts to free the confined arms—a change of colour
in the face to an ashy paleness-a fixed and glassy stare of the eyes-
then, a long, last spasmodic heaving and contortion, and all is over;
the body apparently falls a corpse!
r
On witnessing such a strange and revolting scene, the first impulse of
the stranger, despite the surrounding crowd, was to seize the murderous
culprit, but from this he was prevented by the deafening shouts of the
applauding multitude, testifying their approbation of the dexterity of the
performer, by a shower of cash." It is almost superfluous to add,
that the deception consisted in the construction of the blade and handle
of the knife; so contrived, that by making a sawing motion on the
throat of the boy, to produce a stream of coloured liquid resembling
blood, pumped out of the knife and handle. These and many other rare
sights of the kind are daily practised for the amusement of the idle crowd
in the streets of Canton.
But, however, ingenious the deception of some of these persons may
appear, the Jugglers from Nankin have a still higher reputation among
their own countrymen. Several of their feats of skill and daring are,
to the uninitiated, truly astonishing, for instance :-Two men from
Nankin appear in the streets of Canton, the one places his back against
a stone wall, or wooden fence; the upper part of his person is divested
of clothing. His associate, armed with a large knife, retires to a dis-

{
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​T⚫GILKS,
D.HM.
79
tance, say from 100 to 200 feet. At a given signal, the knife is thrown
with an unerring aim in the direction of the person opposite, to within
With such
a hairs breadth of his neck, immediately below his ear.
certainty of success is the blow aimed, and so great is the confidence
reposed by the one in the skill of the other, that not the slightest
uneasiness is discernible in the features of him, whose life is a forfeit to
the least deviation on the part of the practitioner. This feat is again and
again performed, and with similar success, only varying the direction of
the knife to the opposite side of the neck of the exposed person, or to
any other point of proximity to the living target, as the spectators may
desire.
Another, and the last feat to be mentioned, is equally exciting.
A man is armed with an instrument, resembling a trident, or what is
termed by sailors, "grains;" to which formidable weapon is attached a
long handle of hard wood. The Juggler, with surprising strength of
arm, throws this weapon perpendicularly into the air to a great height;
as it gains the greatest elevation, he measures, with a practised eye and
wonderful precision, the exact spot on which it will fall. To this point
he advances step by step; in an instant the weapon descends with fear-
ful velocity, scraping the edges of some protruding part of his person;
thus giving proof of a singular daring, and successful effort, which
surpasses in skill, even the most celebrated rifle shots of the hunters of
Kentucky,
The fortune-tellers of China, observes Mr. Lay, are generally persons
with a smattering of literature, which gives them an outward polish and
gentility of manner. They plant a table in some convenient spot, which
is provided with a large metallic plate for writing, and the different items
of the writing apparatus, as black and red ink, hair pencils, a cup of
water with a singular spoon, and a sponge or cloth for obliterating the
characters upon the shining abacus, when the soothsayer has done with
them; a wooden vase, which contains a bundle of bamboo slips, whereon
are certain marks, and a tray filled with little rolls of paper, inscribed
in a similar way.
The books that contain the principles of the art are laid in a pile at
one corner, while here and there a tablet is hung up to inform the public
80
as to the qualifications of the fortune-teller, and the price that the
applicant must pay for his divination. Those who have not established
their reputation suspend large and showy scrolls near the table, to
inform the public that they have the intelligence in the secrets of wind
and water (fung shwuy,) as their art is fancifully, or perhaps, philosophi-
cally called, since the destiny of man is supposed to be closely interwoven
with the laws which influence the state of the weather.
Before the usual hour of breakfast, which is about 10 o'clock, the
learned man takes his seat at the table, and if he happens to be well-
known, he is soon surrounded by a circle of spectators.
Some poor
fellow who earns a precarious livelihood by running on errands, or by
some other chance employment, is anxious to know whether futurity has
not something better in store for him; so he advances towards the table,
lays down half-a-dozen cash, (a trifle more than a farthing,) draws a
slip of bamboo, takes up a roll of paper, and then presents them severally
to the seen seang, or learned man, who transfers the dots and marks with
which they are inscribed to his polished plate, and forthwith proceeds to
mould them into characters, by additions made after certain pre-established
rules of art. The characters thus formed, compose a series of sentences,
which, being somewhat enigmatical and ambiguous, require the comment
of the learned man. He affects no secresy, nor pretends to have a
deeper insight into the matter than some who look on, to whom he
often addresses himself, that they may have an opportunity of bearing
testimony to the correctness of his influences. An old man who was
always seen in his place, had a kindness of manner about him that
greatly commended his words. He seemed to take pleasure in telling
the applicant when the response was favorable, or soothing him if it
wore a different aspect.
2
This mode of consulting fate we may call sortes, or drawing lots; it
has obtained believers in all parts of the world where religious knowledge
has been at a low ebb, and appears as if it had grown out of the very
instincts of mankind.
The large parasol in this case, beautifully enriched with embroidery
and gold thread, is one of those carried on state occasions by the attend-
ants of the officers of government. Parasols and umbrellas were first
81
mentioned in books published about A. D. 300. It is said, that they
took their rise from standards and banners waving loosely in the
air.
Some notice of the other national amusements will not be out of place
here. The Chinese have fewer holidays than perhaps any other people;
yet they have a number of festivals, which are enjoyed with a keen relish.
The chief of these is the Feast of the New Year, which occurs on the first
day of the first moon (about the middle of February), a species of Satur-
nalia, when the whole empire abandons itself to a frenzy of merriment.
All labour is intermitted for several days; public business is suspended for
forty days, that the prescribed ceremonials may be duly observed with ap-
propriate solemnity and etiquette; servants are dressed out in all the finery
at their command; visits of ceremony and presents are interchanged
among friends; the rites of religion are conducted with unusual
and, in short, gaiety and pleasure are the reigning divinities.
pomp ;
On this day persons proceed from the temple with a lighted candle,
with the superstitious impression that, if they succeed in reaching their
homes without extinguishing the light, they will be prosperous during
the year. They are, however, apparently regardless of any inauspicious
omen, and will return to the temple, again and again, to relight their
candles, and, as it were, to compel the fates to terminate their labours by
a more successful attempt.
The Feast of Lanterns, which occurs soon after this, is a general illu-
mination throughout the empire. The object seems to be to afford an
occasion for the display of ingenuity and taste in the construction and
mechanism of an infinite variety of lanterns. It is computed that, upon
this occasion, there are not less than 200,000,000 blazing at the same
time in different parts of the empire. The brilliancy of this beautiful
festival cannot be adequately conveyed to the mind or fancy of a reader,
even by the most glowing powers of description.
A gay scene presents itself in the second moon (February) at Leih-
chun Term. There is made, at the expense of government, a clay image
of a man to represent the divinity of Spring, called Tae-suy, (in allusion
to the year of the Cycle,) and a buffalo of the same material. On the
day preceding the term, the Che-foo (district magistrate) of every
F
82
provincial city, goes out in state to "meet Spring," when he offers
sacrifice, and makes prostrations to these two figures. There are, dressed
out by all the inhabitants of the different streets, a number of children,
who are placed on tables, or represented sitting on trees. These tables
are carried on men's shoulders, who parade the streets. These living
figures, (Chun-sih) are gaily adorned with flowers, and every one vies
with another to dress them more handsomely and fancifully. On the day
following, the same officer comes out as the Priest of Spring, in which
capacity he is the greatest man in the province, and would receive
obeisance from the viceroy in case of meeting him. He takes a whip
in his hand, and strikes the buffalo two or three times in token of com-
mencing the labors of agriculture. The populace then stone the buffalo
till they break it in pieces, from which they expect an abundant year.
These decorated tables, upwards of seventy in number, with the living
figures upon them, are carried to the various public offices, to return
thanks for the silver medals which have been given them.
There are several agricultural festivals; an annual trial of skill in boat-
racing; a festival in honour of the dead; and a sort of general thanks-
giving, a holiday highly enjoyed, which takes place in September, at the
commencement of the business year.
On the fifth day of the fifth moon the Dragon Boat performs its annual
feats upon the river in the vicinity of Canton. It is a very long and
narrow vessel, the prow being formed somewhat in the style of the fabled
monster as depicted by the Chinese. Propelled by fifty or sixty men, it
centre of the boat stands a large
moves with great rapidity. In the
drum, in shape, like half a hogshead, and covered with a hide stretched
across the top. This is beaten by three men, who strike simultaneously,
to increase the sound. Near the drum stands a man, apparently a pos-
ture-maker, making frightful grimaces, who, in concert with other men
in the fore part of the boat, flourish continually their flag-halberts, and
brandish their weapons, in order to frighten the dragon, who is supposed
to be lurking in ambush about the river.
Gaming prevails among the lower orders, but so much infamy attaches
to gamblers, that the more respectable classes of the people are free from
this taint. They have a saying, that "gambling is allied to robbery."

1.CICKS
لاد الشالات
!
83
The vendors of fruit sometimes gamble with purchasers in the fol-
lowing manner :-A boy wishes a half-dozen oranges. The fruit and
half the price demanded for it are laid down together. Recourse is then
had to the dice-box. If the urchin throws the highest number, he
pockets his money again, and gets the fruit for nothing; if the seller, he
in like manner sweeps the stakes, and the disappointed gamester may
whistle for oranges, or try his fortune elsewhere. Quails are trained for
fighting, and also a species of cricket. Two of these insects are placed in a
bowl together, and irritated by a straw, when they attack each other with
great violence, though the combat does not usually end in the death of
either, but in the retreat of one. Hundreds of dollars are staked on
the result of these miniature conflicts, and large sums are often paid for
victorious warriors. The gamesters fight them for cakes, but in their
slang dialect, each cake is understood to mean a certain sum of money.
They have another game of chance also, a kind of raffle, in which many
stake a small part of the value of something, in consideration of a chance
to gain it by guessing its weight, he who guesses nearest is entitled to
it. The butchers often raffle a pound of meat in this way.
Dice, cards, and dominoes, are all favorite amusements. Their cards
are small pieces of pasteboard, about three inches long, and an inch
broad, with red and black characters on the faces.
The Chinese chess differs in board, men, and moves, from that of
India, and cannot in any way be identified with it, except as being a
game of skill, and not of chance.
As promoters of mirth and conviviality at their merry meetings, they
have the two following auxiliaries. One of these amusements consists
in each one guessing at the number of fingers suddenly held up between
himself and his opponent, and the penalty of the loser is each time to
drink a cup of wine. In still calm evenings, during the continuance of
the Chinese festivals, the shouts of the common people engaged at this
exciting sport are sometimes so boisterous as to drown all other
sounds.
The other festive sport is a handsome bouquet of flowers, to be cir-
culated rapidly from hand to hand among the guests, while a roll is
beaten on a kettle-drum, con spirito, in an adjoining room. Whoever
F 2
84
may chance to hold the flowers at the moment the drum ceases, pays
a similar forfeit.
Of out-door amusements, the most popular is kite-flying. In this the
Chinese excel. They show their superiority as well in the curious con-
struction of their kites, as in the height to which they make them mount.
By means of round holes, supplied with vibrating cords, their kites are
made to produce a loud humming noise, like that of a top. The ninth
day of the ninth moon is a holiday especially devoted to this national
pastime, on which day numbers may be seen repairing to the hills for the
purpose of kite-flying, and after amusing themselves, they let them
fly wherever the wind may carry them, and give their kites and cares
at once to the wind.
It is said, that in ancient times, a kind of foot-ball was introduced into
"the army of Heaven," as an exercise for the soldiers. A game at shut-
tlecock, in which the feet serve as battledores, is also a favourite “field
sport." In Pekin, during the winter, skating, and other amusements
on the ice, in which the emperor takes a part, are among the national
exercises.
..
The amusements of the emperor's court on the ice, during the severe
winters of Pekin, are thus given by Van Braam, who was one of the
Dutch mission which proceeded from Canton soon after Lord Macart-
ney's embassy The emperor made his appearance on a sort of sledge,
supported by the figures of four dragons. This machine was moved by
several mandarins, some dragging before, and others pushing behind.
The four principal ministers of state were also drawn upon the ice in
their sledges by inferior mandarins.
Whole troops of civil and military officers soon appeared, some on
sledges, some on skates, and others playing at football on the ice, and
he that picked up the ball was rewarded by the emperor. The ball was
then hung up in a kind of arch, and several mandarins shot at it, in pass-
ing on skates, with their bows and arrows. Their skates were cut
off short under the heel, and the fore-part was turned up at right
angles."
These diversions are quite in the spirit of the Tartars, whose original
habits were strongly opposed to those of the quiet and effeminate
85
Chinese. However robust and athletic the laboring classes in the south-
ern province of the empire, those who are not supported by bodily exertion
are in general extremely feeble and inactive.
Unlike the European gentry, they seldom mount on a horse, if not of
the military profession; and as nobody who can afford a chair ever
moves in any other way, the benefits of walking are also lost to them.
Nothing surprises a Chinese gentleman more than the voluntary exer-
tion which Europeans impose on themselves for the sake of health as well
as amusement. Some Chinese merchants were once invited to a ball
given by the foreign residents at Macao; and after the dancing was
finished, one of the native guests gravely enquired, why they did not
employ their servants to act this fatiguing part for them!*
Much of this inactivity of habit must of course be attributed to the
great heat of the climate during a considerable portion of the year, when
they would be great sufferers from their sedentary lives, were it not for
the beneficial custom of living entirely in the open air, with warm
clothing, during even the winter months-that is, in the south; for, to
the northward, the extreme cold compels them to resort to stoves,
with closed windows and doors.
The extremes of heat and cold which prevail throughout the country
at opposite seasons of the year, together with the above mentioned cus-
tom of living in the open air, are the causes which have probably given
rise to the marked distinctions that exist between the summer and
winter dress of the better classes in China. The difference is principally
shewn by the cap, as elsewhere noticed.
* In allusion to personal comfort and ease, they say ;-" It is better to sit than to
walk;—it is better to lie down than to sit;—and still better to sleep than do either.”
£6
CASE VI.
No. 27.
ITINERANT BARBER AT HIS AVOCATION, WITH HIS WHOLE APPARATUS.
28. ITINERANT SHOEMAKER, AT HIS WORK, WITH WORK-BENCH, BASKET,
29.
30.
31.
TOOLS, LAMP, &c.
TRAVELLING BLACKSMITH, WITH ANVIL, FURNACE, BELLOWS, &c.
CHINESE BOATWOMAN, CARRYING A CHILD ON HER BACK IN THE USUAL
MODE.
ANOTHER BOATWOMAN, WITH PIPE, MOTHER OF THE ABOVE.
On the wall are several specimens of bamboo hats and rush coats,
worn by the lower classes in rainy weather.
Specimens of ploughs, harrows, axes, hoes, rakes, forks, shovels,
spades, flails, mattocks, &c. &c. These implements are, for the
most part, simple and rude. They are made chiefly of wood, and
merely shod with iron. On the wall are also displayed two fishing
nets, made of a peculiar kind of hemp, also fishing scoops.
THIS case presents to the visitor's observation some singular specimens
of Chinese life. We have in it an itinerant barber, shoemaker, and black-
smith, and two boatwomen, one of whom is carrying an infant on her
back. The barbers in China are a numerous class. Every town is
thronged with them. According to their records, the number of the
fraternity in Canton in 1834, was no less than 7,300. The reason of
this large number is, that, as the head, as well as the face, is shaven,
no Chinaman ever shaves himself. The barbers are all ambulatory; and
no one is allowed to discharge the duties of tonsor until he has obtained
a license; each carries his shop on his back, and performs his opera-
tions tonsorial in the open street. The usual implements are a stool,
provided with a case of drawers, and a kind of tub, with a small char-
coal furnace and a basin. We have the apparatus here complete. The
operation is generally performed in perfect silence, a fact meriting the
attention of our own practitioners in this way. The razor is a clumsy-
looking affair, but is said to shave sufficiently well. It is sharpened on
L

DHM
T-GILKS.
87
iron. No soap is used, the beard being softened by the application of
hot water alone.
In addition to the universal shaving operation, they exercise the func-
tion of shampooing, which altogether occupies a considerable time. For
this latter purpose are employed an ear brush, ear spoon, ear tweezers,
and eye pearls. These four instruments belong to the barber's profes-
sion. The ear-brush resembles the globular flower of the Acacia, and
is used after the ear spoon; which is usually a thin slip of horn. The
eye-pearl is a small pellet of coral fastened on the end of a slip of horn,
and is passed under the eye-lid to remove superfluous matter, and often
doubtless to the injury of the eye.
The compensation is left entirely to the employer's generosity;
it is commonly from five to ten cash. In passing through the
streets of Canton the barbers employ a peculiar call to gain the
attention of the passing throng. The instrument used resembles a pair
of long iron tweezers, having the connecting part made thin and broad,
so that when twanged it will prolong the vibration. All trades in
China are licensed, and none but a licensed and acknowledged workman
can be employed.
The ambulatory shoemaker, with his rude tools, and his enormous spec-
tacles, is a study for a painter. He carries with him, in a basket,
wherever he goes, all his implements, together with his whole stock in
trade. A fan and a pipe-without which, it would almost seem, a
Chinaman could not exist--complete his equipment.
The visitor will notice the novel manner in which our shoemakers'
spectacles are kept in their place. This is effected by no greater expen-
diture of ingenuity than is involved in passing a loop fastened to the
ends of the spectacles round each ear. They are sometimes retained in
their position by silver cords slung over the ears, to which small weights
are attached, to preserve the equilibrium. The glasses, or rather crystals,
(for rock crystal, ground with the powder of corundum, supplies the
place of glass,) are perfectly circular in shape, and of enormous dimen-
sions, which gives the wearer a very sapient appearance.
By the side of the honest cobbler, we have an itinerant blacksmith,-
par nobile fratrum. He also, when inclined to try his fortune in a new
-83
place, stows forge, bellows, anvil, tools, &c., into a basket, which he
slings over his shoulder, and thus takes up his line of march. This figure,
with the implements and appliances that surround it, will attract special
notice. The anvil, instead of having a flat surface, is slightly rounded
on the top, which causes the iron to extend more readily under the
hammer. The bellows is a hollow cylinder, with a piston so contrived
that the blast produced by it is continuous; with these simple means
he will repair cast iron vessels when worn into holes-an art so far
as we know, not practised by any other nation.
The female figures in this case represent a large class in China, viz.,
the boatwomen. These people will be hereafter described. One of
them has an infant on her back, who finds a convenient handle to hold
by in her long plaited cue-her companion carries a painted block of
wood, resembling a gourd, which it is usual to attach to the backs
of young children who live in the boats, to prevent them from sinking
in case of falling overboard, till help can be afforded. In the hand of
the former is a very well constructed umbrella, (yu chay) made of oiled
paper.
The huge bamboo hats suspended on the wall of this case, deserve
to be noticed. The bamboo is as useful to the Chinese as the rein-
deer is to the Laplander. Of this gigantic grass, or reed, (Arundo
Bambos) there are numerous varieties, and the uses to which it is
applied are quite as various. The jointed stems not unfrequently
exceed 100 feet in height with a diameter of a foot near the base. It is
of the most rapid growth, clothed, especially at the top, with copious
dark green foliage, and literally constitutes forests, and is one of the
most extensively useful of all plants in China. Hats, baskets, shields,
umbrellas, ornamental furniture, measures, ropes, paper, poles for
scaffolding, temporary theatres, &c., are constructed of bamboo. The
young shoots are used for food, being boiled, and sweatmeats are
sometimes made of them. The small branches serve as pipe-stems;
and for every purpose wherein strength, combined with lightness is
required, they are admirably suited, being formed upon the same
principle as the bones of birds. Farmers make great use of the
bamboo, many of their implements being formed of it; and a silicious
89
concretion, (Tabasheer,) found in the joints, is an item in the Chinese
materia medica.
The
The rush cloak upon the wall is made of the leaves of the bamboo, to keep
off the rain; called by the natives "So e,
e," a garment of leaves."
poor wear a coarse kind; government couriers use a finer sort, which
Umbrellas also,
are compressed into a small compass when not worn.
made of reeds and bamboo leaves, are used in rainy weather, and as a
protection from the sun, by the keepers of stalls for the sale of articles in
the
open air.
The most cursory account of the Celestial Empire, should include
some notice of its agriculture. Of all classes who labour with their
hands, the husbandman is there the most honoured, being accounted
second only to the literati of the realm. Nothing appears so strongly to
have roused the wonder of the early missionaries to China, as the agri-
cultural skill of the natives; and in nothing, perhaps, did they so much
indulge in exaggeration, as in their accounts of it. But whatever abate-
ments truth may require to be made from their glowing descriptions,
there can hardly be a doubt that the Chinese manage to get more
out of an acre of ground than any other nation, the English alone
excepted.
It is stated on the authority of Amiot, that the cultivated lands of the
country amount to about 596,172,500 English acres. This immense
territory is divided into patches of a few acres each, generally owned by
the occupants. A rigid economy of soil is practised. With the excep-
tion of the royal gardens at Pekin, no land in the empire is taken up with
parks or pleasure-grounds. Of meadows there are none; of pasture-
grounds, scarcely any. The few ruminating animals, scattered thinly over
the country, gather a scanty subsistance, as best they may, on mountains
and marshes, unfit for cultivation. As wheel carriages are seldom used but
in the north, the highways are but a few feet wide, and nothing is thrown
away there. No fences are allowed to encumber the soil, no hedges to
prey upon its strength. Sepulchres are always on hills too barren for culti-
vation. A narrow foot-path separates neighbouring farms, and porcelain
landmarks define more permanently their respective limits. Even the
sterile mountains are terraced into fertility, and glow with ripening
90
harvests, intermingled with the brilliant foliage of clustering fruit
trees.
But their economizing of the soil is not more rigid, than the methods
are new and various, by which they seek to preserve or renovate its
strength. Necessity may here truly be said to have been the mother of
invention. Every conceivable substance, possessing any enriching
qualities, is here converted into a manure. Not only lime, ashes, dung
of animals, &c., but hair of all kinds, barber's shavings, horns and bones
reduced to powder, soot, night soil, the cakes that remain after the
expression of their vegetable oil; plaster of old kitchens, and all
kinds of vegetable and animal refuse, are among the substances
used as manures. These are all carefully collected and husbanded,
being frequently kept in cisterns constructed for the purpose, or in
earthen vessels sunk in the ground, where, covered with straw to prevent
evaporation, and diluted with a sufficient quantity of water, they are left
to undergo the putrefactive fermentation, after which they are applied to
the land.
The Chinese understand well the enriching effect of frequent plough-
ings.*
Horses or oxen are rarely attached to their ploughs; more
commonly a small species of buffalo; and oftener still, men and women.
Frequently the plough is not used at all, the spade and hoe supplying its
place. In the irrigation of their lands, they display great ingenuity and
diligence. Their numerous rivers are here of essential utility.
In no country in the world is agriculture more encouraged, or deemed
more honorable than in China. Not only does the emperor himself
plough a piece of land once a year, in public, in imitation of Shin-nung,
the divine husbandman"-but he is looked up to as peculiarly the
patron and father of those who cultivate the soil, and upon him
devolves a peculiar responsibility in invoking the gods, as will be seen by
the following prayer offered up by the present emperor, Taou-Kwang,
during the dearth of 1832.
* Sir Joseph Banks expresses his surprise that this principle is not turned to greater
account by the Europeans. Repeated ploughings are almost the only fertilizing process
known among the Hindoos.
91
'I, the minister of Heaven, am placed over mankind, and made
"responsible for keeping the world in order and tranquilising the people.
“Unable as I am to sleep or eat with composure, scorched with grief,
" and trembling with anxiety, still no genial and copious showers have
"descended. I ask myself whether, in sacrificial services, I have been
"remiss; whether pride and prodigality have had a place in my heart,
"springing up there unobserved; whether from length of time I have
“become careless in the affairs of government ; whether I have
“uttered irreverent words and deserved reprehension; whether perfect
equity has been attained in conferring rewards and inflicting punish-
".ments; whether, in raising mausoleums and laying out gardens, I
“have distressed the people and wasted property; whether, in the ap-
44
pointment of officers, I have failed to obtain fit persons, and thereby
"rendered government vexatious to the people; whether the oppressed
"have found no means of appeal; whether the largesses conferred on
"the afflicted Southern Provinces were properly applied, or the people
"left to die in the ditches. Prostrate I beg imperial Heaven to pardon
my ignorance and dulness, and to grant me self renovation; for
myriads of innocent people are involved by me, a single man. My
“sins are so numerous, that it is hopeless to escape their consequences."
"Summer is past, and Autumn arrived-to wait longer is impossible.
"-Prostrate, I implore imperial Heaven to grant a gracious deli-
verance."
Rice is their staple grain. They always obtain two crops a year out
of their land; sometimes three. When a third is not raised, the soil is
nevertheless, again taxed in the production of pulse, greens, potatoes,
and other vegetables. Millet is extensively cultivated. As in Judea of
old, the women of China labour on the farms equally with the men. A
stout and healthy wife is therefore a great desideratum with a China-
man, and the "
working wives of Keang-se" are said to be held in
high estimation throughout the provinces.
For further remarks on the culture of rice, we are indebted to
J. F. Davis, Esq., from whose able work on China and the Chinese, we
extract the following;
“The rice grown by the Chinese is of a much larger grain than that
.92
which is common in India, and consists principally of two sorts, the
white or fine, and the red, or coarser kinds. They have a great
prejudice in favor of their own native produce; but, when it is scarce,
are ready enough to purchase what comes from abroad. The Canton
government encourages the importation of foreign rice by exempting the
ships which bring it, from port charges; but this advantage is in a great
measure rendered nugatory by the dishonesty and exactions of the lower
mandarins, who have sometimes caused ships to proceed no further than
Lintin, where the rice has been sold to coasting junks. At other times,
however, this mode of avoiding a portion of the heavy expences of the
Canton river has occasioned an importation of from 15,000 to 20,000
tons in ships of various nations-a small quantity, after all, for the
demands of an enormous population. A considerable quantity of grain
is used for fermented liquors and for distillation. The mandarins are
such bad political economists as frequently to prohibit, when there are
fears of scarcity, the appropriation of grain to these purposes; being
ignorant that, if really required for food, the price would prevent its
conversion to the other purpose; and, above all, that such a use of it
always maintains a surplus supply, which may be resorted to in any case of
extremity. The plough used in rice cultivation is of the simplest
construction. A sharp coulter, or blade, in front of the share, is found
needless, as the ground is of a light loamy description, and they never
have to cut through turf. The plough is in some parts of the country,
drawn through the soil by human strength; in others by oxen, asses
and mules, yoked together indiscriminately. The ploughshare terminates
at the back in a curve, which serves as a mould board to turn aside the
earth. In the Canton province the soil of the rice fields is ploughed
by means of a small buffalo, of a dark grey or slate color, called by the
Chinese shwuy-new, "water ox," from its propensity for muddy shallows,
where it wallows in the mire, with habits more allied to some of the
pachydermatous than the ruminating tribes. When sufficient rains have
fallen in spring to allow the rice fields to be laid under water, they are
subjected to the plough in that condition, the buffalo and his driver
wading through the wet and slime up to their knees-an operation to
which the "water ox" is admirably fitted by nature. After this, a rake
93
or harrow with a single row of teeth, and frequently a man standing on
it, is dragged through the soil in order to break the lumps and clear the
ground.
The rice is first of all sown in a small patch duly prepared and flooded
with water, and subsequently transplanted to the fields where it is to grow.
A short time previously to being sown the seed is immersed in liquid
manure, which promotes its future growth, and renders it less liable
to worms or insects. In two or three days after being committed to the
ground, the young shoots appear, of a beautiful light green color, and
when they have reached a proper height, they are removed to the fields
which had been prepared for their reception. The process of transplant-
ing, exhibits a division of labor that is perfect, one person takes up the
shoots about six inches in length, and hands them to another, who conveys
them to their destination. They are there received by another party of
laborers, standing ankle deep in mud and water, some of whom dibble
holes, into which they drop the plants by sixes, while others follow to
settle the earth about the roots; the distances between these tufts being
six or eight inches every way. The field is then kept flooded according
to its wants, or to the circumstances of the season; and any unusual
deficiency of water is of course fatal to a grain which, from its nature,
the planters of South Carolina call “
swamp seed."
The fields are weeded and otherwise attended to between seed time and
harvest; and when the rice, by turning yellow, is known to be nearly ripe,
the water is gradually drawn off so that by the end of June or begin-
ning of July, when it is time to reap, the fields are nearly dry.
The tufts of grain are cut singly near the ground, by means of a
species of sickle or crooked knife, and then carried off in bundles or
sheaves to be thrashed. The floor employed for this purpose is of
hardened earth, either with or without an admixture of lime. The
grain has been said to be trodden out by cattle sometimes, but the most
usual implement for thrashing is the common European flail. They have
a winnowing machine precisely like ours, and this seems to be the best.
evidence for the fact*, that we borrowed this useful invention from them.
* A model was carried from China to Holland; and from Holland the first specimen
reached Leith.
94
To get rid of the tenacious husk of the rice, it is pounded in stone
mortars, (see No. 822,) of which the cone-shaped pestles are worked
by horizontal levers attached to them. A wheel moved by water turns
a cylinder, to whose circumference are attached cogs which, meeting
the extremities of the levers, strike them down alternately, and thus raise
the pestles at the other end; a similar process is also effected by the
feet.
For the 2nd crop of rice the ground is immediately cleared of the old
stubble and roots, and laid again under water, fresh plants are inserted
as before, and the harvest is gathered in November. When other grains
are sown, it is not by broad cast, but by the drill method, with a view to
economising the seed. One drill plough was observed by Mr. Barrow,
It consisted of two parallel poles of wood,
different from the rest.
shod at the lower extremities with iron to open the furrows; these poles
were placed upon wheels; a small hopper was attached to each pole, to
drop the seed into the furrows, which were covered with earth by a
transverse piece of wood fixed behind, that just swept the surface of the
ground." The third annual crop obtained from the land consists of
pulse, greens, and other vegetables, obtained during the dry and cold
winter months. At this period the rice fields near Macao produce an
abundance of potatoes, peas, and cabbages, for which the Chinese
summer in that latitude would be too hot and rainy. In lieu of a
spade, they use a large heavy iron hoe, which is a more expeditious
but far less efficient instrument, as it barely turns the earth to half the
depth of the other. This hoe serves them instead of every variety
of tool, for weeding, trenching, digging, or whatever may be the
operation required."
The plough of the Chinese, though very simple in its construction, has
at different times assumed a variety of shapes; one of their best consists
of eleven parts, namely, the base, share, mould-board, beam, handle, fore-
brace, regulator, bolt, stud-brace, share-brace, whipple-tree or ears.
There is no coulter, and the "mould-board" is of iron. The fore-brace is
called "the arrow" of the plough; it seems never to be morticed into
the beam, but to be fastened to it by a withe or thong, while another one
passes around it, and the handle (about half way between the base and
95
beam,) lashing them together; this latter one, the regulator, is con-
tracted or loosened by the bolt, by which it is twisted or untwisted.
The Chinese name for rice is " Me," when out of the husk, when
boiled "Fan." With them it is the " staff of life."
No good land is ever reserved in China for pasture, which in fact can
scarcely be considered as forming a department of their husbandry. The
few cattle that they have, are turned out only upon waste lands, which
are never improved by any sort of artificial manuring or dressing. To
this must partly be ascribed the poor and stunted appearance of their
cows and horses. The flesh of flocks and herds is scarcely tasted
except by the rich, and the Chinese do not use either milk, butter, or
cheese.
Not only has it been the care of the government, from the earliest
ages, to give every direct encouragement to tillage, and to the produc-
tion of food (grain) for man alone, but there have always existed some
absurd prejudices and maxims against an extended consumption of flesh-
food. The penal code denounces severe punishment against those who
kill their own cattle without an express licence.
It is a well-known principle that, where tillage exists to a consider-
able extent, the rent of land reserved for pasture must, in proportion to its
goodness, be equal to that of land employed in producing grain; and
this, under a rice-cultivation, where three crops per annum, or two of
rice and one of vegetables, are said sometimes to be obtained, must have
such an obvious effect in raising the comparative price of meat, as must
discourage its consumption among a frugal people like the Chinese, even
without the intervention of any positive law.
There is accordingly no people in the world (the Hindoos excepted-
and they use milk) that consumes so little meat, or so much fish and
vegetable food; nor, again, is there any country in which fewer cattle are
employed for the purposes of draft and burthen.
In the southern parts of the empire, therefore, beasts of carriage and
draft, with the exception of a few miserable riding-horses and buffaloes
for ploughing, are nearly unknown.
Towards Pekin and the borders of Tartary, the case becomes altered;
but the great wall may still be considered, generally, as the boundary that
96
separates two people, one of them exclusively pastoral, and the other as
exclusively tillers of the earth.
Notwithstanding the immensity of labour bestowed on the cultivation of
the earth—and the Chinese agriculturists are like ants or bees in respect
to both their number and industry-it seems incapable of sustaining the
swarming population of the empire. Hence every harbour, lake, river,
and stream of whatever description, are literally thronged and darkened
by fishermen.
The Chinese eat nearly every kind of fish, and the ingenious and novel
methods resorted to for alluring and entrapping their victims, from the
smack that ventures out 50 or 100 miles from the coast, to the simple
hook and net of the tankea woman, barely suffice to supply the demand.
Nor do they forget or omit to take care that the waters be not, as it
were, depopulated, by these ceaseless ravages. They take the utmost
pains to collect the spawns of fishes, and to deposit them in convenient
places for breeding.
<
"Such is their toil, and such their busy pains,
As exercise the bees in flowery plains,
When winter past, and summer scarce begun,
Invites them forth to labour in the sun."
On each side of this recess is suspended a tablet, the one bearing the
inscription, " If you would be rich, rear the FIVE domestic animals, viz.:
pigs, cows, sheep, fowls, dogs."-The other reads thus," Labour induces
reflection, and reflection virtue.”
97
CASE VII.
A CHINESE GENTLEMAN IN A SEDAN, CARRIED BY TWO BEARERs.
SERVANT IN ATTENDANCE WITH LANTERN.
CHINESE COMPLIMENTARY CARD ON THE WALL.
THIS case, in depth, is about the average width of the streets in
Canton and is nearly filled by a sedan, in which the owner is com-
fortably seated, while he is borne gently along by a couple of coolies. A
body servant is in attendance, who walks by the side of the lordly chair,
having in his right hand a lantern, (Tang-lung,) such as is used when
walking out, without which no person can appear in the streets after
dark; on it is inscribed the name and rank of the owner. The
interior of the sedan is just large enough for the convenient reception of a
single occupant. Instead of panels, the sides are covered with a colored
silk for lightness, and there is an additional covering of oil-cloth, to be
used in case of rain. Two bearers place the light elastic poles upon their
shoulders, and move, sometimes at considerable speed, with measured
tread, and a very steady motion. The sedan looks like the very
home of comfort and repose. The illustrious Falstaff never took "mine
ease in mine inn" more luxuriously than the rich Chinaman in his
vaunted sedan. This vehicle is much used by the wealthy, and affords
almost the only mode of land-travelling known, the horse being rarely,
though sometimes employed. Wheel carriages are but little used in
China, especially in the southern and eastern parts, and in the vicinity
of large rivers, where boats are made to serve in their stead. Private
gentlemen are allowed only two bearers; the host of civil officers,
four; viceroys, eight; while the emperor's dignity requires sixteen.
Mandarins are preceded by men bearing pendant banners, with the
inscription" Tsing tow keu," i. e. "Clear the road;" (See No. 1216,)
others carry a hanging tablet, (Teaou pae,) setting forth the name and
dignity of the mandarin. Gongs are frequently sounded by the servants
G
98
in attendance, to give notice of the approach of civil officers and others,
who are distinguished by the number of strokes given at certain in-
tervals.
The sedan chair (Keaou), has often been a bone of contention between
the foreign merchants and the native authorities. The former have,
again and again, demanded earnestly the privilege of using it; the
latter have as vigorously resisted the demand, and hitherto with suc-
cess.
The following rules observed by persons of distinction in formal visits,
although rather long, may be interesting to the general reader :-
Supposing a Chinese is about to visit a friend, he procures a crimson
card, and on the lower half of it writes, "Your friend Chéung Kingshan
bows his head in salutation." Or, he simply writes his name on the
upper half of the card at the (right) side, or in place of writing it, he
may have it stamped. He then puts on his robes and cap, takes his seat
in a sedan, or mounts his horse, or perhaps goes on foot, and proceeds
to pay his visit. I he has a servant in attendance, the servant precedes
him, and knocking at the gate, says aloud, "The gentleman Chéung
Kingshan has come to pay a visit," at the same time presenting his
master's card. The servant of the host then receives the card, and
carries it into the house, and presents it to his master, who, if he does
not wish to receive company, says, "Stay the gentleman's approach."
His servant immediately returns, and standing beside the visitor's sedan,
(returning the card, and bending the knee,) says, "Stay the gentleman's
approach." The visitor accordingly turns, and goes homewards. But if
the master says, "Invite him to come in," the servant goes out and
commands the centre door to be opened. The gentleman then comes
forth to receive the visitor, bows, and invites him to enter. They ascend
the hall together, and take their seats as host and guest.
The guest, (perhaps) says, “It is a long time since we met, and I
have now come, Sir, to pay my respects."
The host replies, "I am unworthy the honor you have taken the
trouble to do me. I hope, Sir, you are well." "Very well, I thank
you," rejoins the guest. At this time the servants present betel and
tea, and after these, pipes, with tobacco for smoking, are brought in.
99
The guest again says, I beg you will mention my name to her lady-
ship, (your mother) and present my compliments and best wishes." The
you are very kind, but (my mother) is
"Does your honored mother," (adds the
The guest replies, "I am much obliged
host replies, "I thank you,
unworthy of such attention."
host,) "enjoy good health?"
for your kind enquiries; recently she has been very unwell.”
The host says,
This is a matter of course with a person of advanced
age; pray, what is the age of your parent?" Her age this year is
seventy-one." The host further adds, "It was said by the ancients,
'few reach threescore years and ten:' I presume your aged mother has
a very good constitution." "Very good indeed, I thank you," says the
guest, (and then enquires) "How many sons, Sir, have been presented
to you ?”—The host answers, "I am an unfortunate man, and have but
one poor boy."
"I remember," says the guest, "that formerly, I came to your house
to celebrate the birth of a son; I cannot realize that six years have since
elapsed; I suppose the boy is already learning to read."
"This year," says the host," he commenced going to school."
Again it is asked,-" since your son, has grown up to boyhood I
have not seen him; he must, I think, be very apt in learning, is he not ?"
"He possesses only ordinary abilities," is the reply. The guest says,
I beg you will let me see him." The master of the house then bids a
servant go to the study, and ask the lad to make his appearance. The
boy follows the servant into the hall, and the host (pointing to the
visitor,) says, "This
"This is my honored friend Cheŭng, come up before him,
make your bow, and ask him how he does." The child then turning to
"Honored friend;" and in a hurried manner kneels down
him, says,
before him, and makes a low bow.
•
The guest immediately reaches forward, raises him up, and bows in
return for his salutation. The boy then takes his stand at a respectful
distance, with his face turned towards the guest; who (addressing his
father) says, "The boy really possesses superior intelligence and will
perpetuate the literary reputation of the family." The host replies,
The reputation of our family is not great, high expectations are not to
be entertained of him; if he can only gain a livelihood, it will be enough."
G 2
100
·
You are quite too modest," says the guest;
“I beg you will let him
return to his studies in the school-room."--The boy bows to the guest,
saying, Pray excuse me," and immediately retires.
cc
Then the conversation being ended, the guest rises and announces his
departure, and says, "Another day I will come again to receive your
counsel." The host says, Ah! you do me too much honor, I ought
rather to wait on you to-morrow."
"Good bye,"
“You are very kind," says the guest,-" Good bye.'
responds the host. The servant now goes out, preceeding his master,
and orders the sedan to be made ready, which is tilted up behind, and
down before, so that the shafts are brought low; the visitor steps in
between the shafts, and moves backward and sits down in the sedan, and
the bearers raise it up on their shoulders. The guest, now seated in the
sedan, bends forward, gently bowing his head, says, "Pray, Sir, go back,
go back." The host (standing at the door,) his hands joined together,
says, "Good bye." The sedan moves of, and the gentleman retires into
nis house. Such are the outlines of the general etiquette observed in
paying visits.
A CHINESE COMPLIMENTARY CARD.
Upon the wall at the back of this case is suspended a complimentary
or valedictory card, or ticket addressed to the owner of this collection
upon his leaving China. It was presented by the Tae Ho-shang, (abbot
or superior) of the temple Hae-chwang-sze, at Honan. The centre of
the card is a bright crimson, and the border is embellished with numerous
figures and devices. Its dimensions (13 feet in length by 8 feet in
width) is indicative of the esteem and respect which it is intended to
convey.
101
CASE VIII.
THE PAVILION.
THE INTERIOR OF A CHINESE GENTLEMAN'S SUMMER RESIDENCE.
SEVERAL FIGURES REPRESENTING THEIR MCDE OF PAYING AND
RECEIVING VISITS.
FURNITURE.
EMBROIDERED LANTERns.
LARGE PORCELAIN JARS ON CARVED PEDESTALS.
THIS is a large apartment, forming the termination of the saloon,
from which it is separated by what may be called a species of carved
net-work. The carving penetrates entirely through the wood, (Laurus
Camphora, camphor wood, called by the Chinese "chang muh,")*
and represents figures of animals, birds, flowers, fruits, &c. The colours
of this open work are as gay, rich, and even gorgeous, as gilding and
paint can make them; yet so skilfully are they disposed, so well do they
blend and harmonize, that their effect is altogether agreeable. The room
thus enclosed is a perfect fac-simile of an apartment in a wealthy China-
man's dwelling.
In either opposite corner of the apartment are placed a large square
carved table of hard wood, with marble tops, and hangings of embroidered
velvet, on which a servant has placed some fruit for the refreshment of the
guests. On the right of these, stands a long high table similar to
our sideboards, for the reception of ornaments, upon which rests.
ornamental stands and fruit. On each side of the apartment are
chairs of a corresponding style and make, alternately arranged with
small tea stands, with a footstool for each chair, besides flower-
pots, cuspadors, porcelain stools, embroidered silk lanterns, &c. &c.
while at the extreme end of the apartment is an aperture in the
The camphor tree grows to a large size in the province of "Keang se."
102
wall of an oval form surrounded with a carved and gilt fretwork,
corresponding with the exterior; through this doorway is seen a
perspective view of Chinese scenery. Doorways of this description are
common in China-and are of different devices, some being circular,
others oval, while some are in the form of a mulberry leaf, with the
stem resting upon the ground. On each side of this entrance is a superb
china vase, about seven feet high, including the stand, which is also of
hard wood, and richly carved. These are of a size and beauty such as
we rarely meet with in this country. They are covered with a profusion
of characteristic figures, among which the imperial dragon holds a
distinguished place. In them are placed a variety of their favorite flowers
and a large fan of peacocks feathers.
The walls are hung with a variety of decorations, chiefly long silken
scrolls, with maxims; and the tables are covered with a profusion of
ornamental articles.
There are six figures in the pavilion, intended to represent the mode
of paying and receiving visits. Visiting is conducted by the Chinese
with great formality blended with much urbanity. Tea, betel, and
tobacco; and frequently sweetmeats or dried fruits, are served on
these occasions, but the visitor is at liberty to decline them if he
pleases, without any breach of good feeling, but this, however, is not
often the case.
The common mode of salutation is to join the closed hands,
and lift them twice or thrice towards the head, saying, Haou-tsing,
tsing; that is, "Are you well?-Hail, hail!" and at other times, the
words "Soo yang fang ming," or, "I have heretofore thought with
veneration on your fragrant name;" the latter, said to persons of whom
they have before heard, on first meeting them.
The ceremony attending an invitation to dinner is somewhat formal,
and may be interesting to many readers. The invitation is conveyed
some days before, by a crimson-coloured ticket, on which is inscribed
the time appointed, and the guest is entreated to bestow the illumina-
tion of his presence." At other times, the phrase, "I have prepared
pure tea and wait for your company to converse.”
In performing the Ko-tow, or prostration, a ceremony which origi-
103
nated in early times, and is perpetuated in the homage which children
pay to their parents, and the people to their sovereign and their deities ;
the modus operandi has varied under different dynasties: the present for-
mula is three kneelings and nine knockings of the head (to the ground)
san kwei kew k'ow!
The good traits in the Chinese character, amongst themselves, observes
Doctor Morrison, (whose long residence in that country afforded him
ample opportunity of becoming familiarly acquainted with their true
character,) are mildness and urbanity; a wish to shew that their conduct is
reasonable, and generally a willingness to yield to what appears so; doci-
lity; industry; subordination of juniors; respect for the aged, and for
parents; acknowledging the claims of poor kindred:- these are the virtues
of public opinion, which, of course, are, in particular cases, often more
shew than reality.
The following description of a Chinese dinner, from the pen of Captain
Laplace, of the French Navy, although rather a long extract, is given
with so much of the characteristic vivacity of his countrymen, and so
well conveys the first impression of a scene not often witnessed by Euro-
"The first course
peans, that it is introduced without further apology
was laid out in a great number of saucers of painted porcelain, and con-
sisted of various relishes in a cold state, as salted earth-worms, prepared
and dried, but so cut up, that I fortunately did not know what they
were until I swallowed them; salted or smoked fish, and ham, both of
them cut into extremely small slices; besides which, there was what
they called Japan leather, a sort of darkish skin, hard and tough, with
a strong, and far from agreeable taste, which seemed to have been
macerated in water for some time. All these et cæteras, including
among the number, a liquor which I recognised to be soy, made from a
Japan bean, and long since adopted by the wine-drinkers of Europe,
to revive their faded appetites or tastes, were used as seasoning to a
great number of stews which were contained in bowls, and succeeded
each other uninterruptedly. All the dishes, without exception, swam
in soup; on one side figured pigeons' eggs, cooked in gravy, together
with ducks and fowls cut very small, and immersed in a dark-coloured
sauce; on the other, little balls made of sharks' fins, eggs prepared by
104
heat (of which both the smell and taste seemed to us equally repul-
sive,) immense grubs, a peculiar kind of sea-fish, crabs, and pounded
shrimps."
•
Seated at the right of our excellent Amphitryon, I was the object
of his whole attention; but, nevertheless, found myself considerably at
a loss how to use the two little ivory sticks, tipped with silver, which,
together with a knife that had a long, narrow, and thin blade, formed
the whole of my eating apparatus. I had great difficulty in seizing my
prey in the midst of these several bowls filled with gravy; in vain I
tried to hold, in imitation of my host, this substitute for a fork, between
the thumb and the two first fingers of the right hand; for the chop-
sticks slipped aside every moment, leaving behind them the unhappy
little morsel which I coveted. It is true, that the master of the house
came to the relief of my inexperience (by which he was much enter-
tained) with his two instruments, the extremities of which, a few
moments before had touched a mouth, whence age, and the use of snuff
and tobacco, had cruelly chased its good looks. However, I contrived
to eat, with tolerable propriety, a soup prepared with the famous birds'
nests, in which the Chinese are such epicures. The substance thus
served up is reduced into very thin filaments, transparent as isinglass,
and resembling vermicelli, with little or no taste. At first I was much
puzzled to find out how, with our chop-sticks, we should be able to
taste of the various soups which composed the greater part of the dinner,
and had already called to mind the fable of the fox and the stork, when
our two Chinese entertainers, dipping at once into the bowls with the
little saucer placed at the side of each guest, showed us how to get
rid of the difficulty." (We confess we were never witness to this
slovenly manœuvre, as the Chinese tables are generally supplied with
a species of spoon, of silver or porcelain, sufficiently convenient in
shape.)
"To the younger guests, naturally lively, such a crowd of novelties
presented an inexhaustible fund of pleasantry; and, though unintelligible
to the worthy Hong merchant and his brother, the jokes seemed to
delight them not at all the less. The wine, in the mean time, circulated
freely, and the toasts followed each other in rapid succession. This
105
liquor, which to my taste was by no means agreeable, is always taken
hot; and in this state it approaches pretty nearly to Madeira in colour,
as well as a little in taste; but it is not easy to get tipsy with it, for, in
spite of the necessity of frequently attending to the invitations of my
host, this wine did not in the least affect my head. We drank it in
little gilt cups, having the shape of an antique vase, with two handles
of perfect workmanship, and kept constantly filled by attendants holding
large silver vessels like coffee-pots."
'After all these good things served one upon the other, of which it
gave me pleasure to see the last, succeeded the second course, which
was preceded by a little ceremony, of which the object seemed to be a
trial of the guests' appetites. Upon the edges of four bowls, arranged
in a square, three others were placed filled with stews, and surmounted
by an eighth, which thus formed the summit of a pyramid; and the
custom is to touch none of these, although invited by the host. On the
refusal of the party, the whole disappeared, and the table was covered
with articles in pastry and sugar; in the midst of which was a salad
composed of the tender shoots of the bamboo, and some watery prepa-
rations, that exhaled a most disagreeable odour."
Up to this point, the relishes, of which I first spoke, had been the
sole accompaniment of all the successive ragouts; they still served to
season the bowls of plain rice, which the attendants now, for the first
time, placed before each of the guests." (It must be remembered that
this was a formal dinner; rice forms a much more integral part of an
every-day meal.)
I regarded with an air of considerable embarrassment, the two
little sticks, with which, notwithstanding the experience acquired since
the commencement of the repast, it seemed very doubtful whether I
should be able to eat my rice, grain by grain, according to the belief of
Europeans regarding the Chinese custom. I therefore waited until my
host should begin, to follow his example, foreseeing that, on this new
occasion, some fresh discovery would serve to relieve us from the truly
ludicrous embarrassment which we all displayed; in a word, our two
Chinese, cleverly joining the ends of their chop-sticks, plunged them
into the bowls of rice, held up to the mouth, which was opened to its
106
full extent, and thus easily shovelled in the rice, not by grains, but by
handsful. Thus instructed, I might have followed their example; but I
preferred making up with the other delicacies for the few attractions,
which, to my taste, had been displayed by the first course. The second
lasted a much shorter time; the attendants cleared away every thing.
Presently the table was strewed with flowers, which vied with each other
in brilliancy; pretty baskets, filled with the same, were mixed with
plates which contained a vast variety of delicious sweatmeats as well as
cakes, of which the forms were as ingenious as they were varied. Nap-
kins steeped in warm water, and flavoured with otto of roses, are
frequently handed to each guest by the servants in attendance. This
display of the productions of nature and of art, was equally agreeable to
the eyes and the tastes of the guests. By the side of the yellow plain--
tain was seen the líchí, of which the strong, rough, and bright crimson
skin defends a stone enveloped in a whitish pulp, which, for its fine
aromatic taste, is superior to most of the tropical fruits; when dried, it
forms an excellent provision for the winter. With these fruits of the
warm climates were mingled those of the temperate zone, brought at
some expence from the northern provinces; as walnuts, chesnuts, apples,
grapes, and Pekin pears, which last, though their lively colour and
pleasant smell attracted the attention, proved to be tasteless, and even
retained all the harshness of wild fruit."
"At length we adjourned to the next room to take tea,—the indis-
pensable commencement and close of all visits and ceremonies among
the Chinese. According to custom, the servants presented it in porce-
lain cups, each of which was covered with a saucer-like top, which
confines and prevents the aroma from evaporating. The boiling water
had been poured over a few of the leaves, collected at the bottom of the
cup; and the infusion, to which no sugar or cream is ever added in
China, exhaled a delicious fragrant odour, of which the best teas carried
to Europe, can scarcely give an idea.”
Other visits of ceremony are conducted with much pomp and formality.
When a gentleman proceeds in his sedan to pay a visit, his attendants
present his ticket at the gate, consisting of his name and titles written
down the middle of a folded sheet of vermillion coloured paper, orna-
107
mented with leaf gold; and sometimes there is enough paper in one of
these to extend across a room. According to the rank of the parties,
the visitors and his host begin bowing at stated distances; though
among equals, the ordinary mode of salutation is to join closed hands.
Only mandarins or official persons, can be carried by four bearers, or
accompanied by a train of attendants. Soon after visitors are seated,
an attendant brings in porcelain cups with covers, with a small quantity
of fine tea leaves in each, on which boiling water has been poured, and
the infusion is thus drank without any other addition; fruits are
also brought on beautifully japanned trays. In some Chinese apart-
ments there are broad couches, called “kangs," as large as a bed. In
the centre of these, small tables are placed, about a foot in height
intended to rest the arm upon, or place tea-cups. On the conclusion of
a visit, the host conducts his guest to his sedan.
Here terminate the cases that contain representations of men and
women, except those at the silk mercer's shop, at the commencement of
the saloon. The figures are modelled out of a peculiar species of clay,
admirably adapted for the purpose. They are highly creditable to the
taste and ingenuity of the Chinese, who, though not good sculptors, are
excellent modellers, and they afford specimens of a style of art alto-
gether novel to Europeans. The attentive observer will have noticed a
considerable sameness of feature running through the whole col-
lection, though all are accurate likenesses of originals, most of whom
are now living. High cheek bones, flat noses, small black eyes, a
yellowish complexion, and a rather dull, heavy expression of countenance,
are the general characteristics. Chinese physical nature is said to be
cast, as it were, in the same mould, throughout the whole empire, not-
withstanding its various provinces differ so widely in soil and climate.
And this characteristic sameness extends to the mind as well as the body.
The phenomenon has been ingeniously explained by the author of "Egypt
and Mahommed Ali," who traces it to despotism as its primary cause;
for he reasons, that the multitude, all reduced to the same level, urged
by the same wants, engaged in the same pursuits, actuated by the same
passions, through a long succession of ages, necessarily assimilate, both
mentally and physically.
108
Corpulency in men, and small, delicate, taper fingers in women, are
much esteemed as indications of gentility. There is a goodly rotundity
of person in most of the figures in this collection, but the attentive visitor
will be particularly struck with the characteristic smallness and delicacy
of the hands. The carefully cultivated and well braided cues, (so long,
in some instances, as almost to trail upon the ground, and affording
admirable handles to an antagonist in a passion,) form a curious sub-
ject of observation. The history of this singular appendage affords
a remarkable illustration of those revolutions which sometimes occur
in national taste and manners. Previously to the conquest of their
country by the Tartars, the Chinese permitted the hair to grow over
the whole head. Shun Che, the first of the Tartar emperors, issued
an imperial edict, requiring the conquered people to conform in this
particular to the custom of their victors. So stoutly was this decree
at first resisted, that many of the nobles preferred death to obedience,
and actually perished by command of the conqueror. At the present
day, however, the loss of this very badge of servitude is considered
one of the greatest calamities, scarcely less dreaded than death itself.
To be deprived of their cue, is one of the most opprobrious brands
put upon convicts and criminals. Those to whom nature has been
sparing in respect to the natural covering of the head, supply her de-
ficiencies by the artificial introduction and intermingling of other hair
with their own, thus seeking to "increase it to a reputably fashioned
size."
The Chinese put faith in the external developments of the skull, and are
therefore, to a certain extent, phrenologists. They look for the principal
characteristics of a man in his forehead, and of a woman on the back of
the cranium.
109
CASE IX.
32 & 33.
34.
LACQUERED WARE.
A pair of small folding screens with numerous marble
panels, on some of which are paintings of different subjects,
the remainder being adorned with written sentences.
Curiously shaped root of a tree, on stand.
35 & 36.
37 & 38.
Carved sections of bamboo, used for holding pencils.
Carved sections of bamboo.
39. Small steel-yard for domestic purposes.
40 & 41.
All articles in common
use in China are sold by weight, not excepting liquids, timber,
fruit, live stock, &c.
A full tea-service of lacquered ware, of great beauty, and
of extreme lightness, forming part of the equipment of a
mandarin's outfit when on an expedition.
The lacquered, or japanned ware of China is well known. All
substances that are dry and rigid, as woods, metals, and prepared paper,
admit of being japanned. The fine varnish used for this purpose is
obtained from a shrub, called Tseih-shoo, (rhus vernix) from which it
distils like gum. It is poisonous in a liquid state, and hence great
caution is used both by those who gather and those who work in it, to
shield themselves from its noxious qualities. It is capable of receiving
all colours, though black is the most common. More than fifty coats of
varnish are sometimes put on.
42. Lacquered case of singular form, to contain the above tea-
service.
43. Beautiful painting on glass, in a stand of carved wood, highly
44.
polished.
Ancient metallic mirror, or speculum, used in China prior to the
introduction of glass.
The back is here presented to the visitor, being ornamented with nu-
merous hieroglyphical figures. The opposite side is highly polished.
110
In many mirrors of this description is a property that has puzzled
the wise, and which is here worthy of notice. Holding the mirror in
the hand by a knob in the centre of the back, and reflecting the rays of
the sun from the polished surface, the exact representation of the raised
figures on the back of the mirror is distinctly reflected on a wall, or
other level surface. The probable solution to this difficulty is, that the
figures on the back being of a harder metal than the face are inserted
through the softer metal; and hence the figures produced in the rays of
light, which are formed by the imperceptible union of the two metals
to the naked eye. In this way the union of iron and steel, as in
Sheffield cutlery, will explain the enigma familiarly.
45. Another stand of hard wood, supporting a beautiful specimen of
painted glass of singular execution.
46.
Porcelain incense vessel, on carved stand, with cover and orna-
mented handle.
47 & 48. Lacquered boxes with several compartments.
49.
Mariner's compass, called "The needle pointing to the South.”
50. Two lacquered boxes to contain dried fruits.
51.
52.
Four lacquered boxes for similar purposes.
Long lacquered case, in which rolls of silks are sent to friends and
newly married acquaintances.
CASE X.
LACQUERED WARE AND ARTICLES OF VERTÛ.
53. Two embroidered cloth pillows for winter use.
54 & 55. Two lacquered boxes of different forms, having separate com-
partments for travelling purposes.
56 & 57. Two Lacquered boxes used for carrying presents, &c.
They are hung in a red net, composed of the fibres of a thistle, and
carried suspended from a bamboo thrown across the shoulder.
111
58 & 59. A pair of lacquered cases, made from a section of bamboo,
with painting of the parent tree in gold, &c.
60. Superb Cabinet, from Soo-chow in the province of Keang-nan,
famous for its manufactures of lacquered ware.
So large a
specimen of this beautiful production of art is rarely to be
found in Canton, and is highly esteemed by the Chinese, as
approaching nearest to the lacquered wares of Japan.
61 & 62. Two lacquered cases, as Nos. 56 & 57.
63.
A gentleman's travelling wardrobe, of lacquered ware.
64. Embroidered winter pillow, as No. 53.
65. A pillow formed of the shavings of bamboo, covered with em-
bossed leather.
66. A travelling case formed of pig's hide, to contain a mandarin's
summer cap.
67. Metallic cap stand, in form of a tripod.
68. Bronzed copper hand-furnace, for keeping the fingers warm when
walking in the streets in cold weather, no gloves being ever
worn. The people of the north of China as well as those of
Canton make use of baskets containing embers, called "Ho-
lung," for a similar purpose.
69. Antique bronze tripod, with a monkey, in cornelian, for the
handle.
70. Lamp in general use of white copper, commonly attached to the wall.
71. Ancient bronze vase.
72. Pewter vessel for holding the tsew-hing or hot wine at dinners and
marriage entertainments.
73. Compass and sun-dial combined. The silk cord that supports the
lid of the box containing the compass, serves for the hand
or gnomon of the dial.
The Chinese have no clocks or watches of their own manufacture,
although both are in use among them; and they exhibit great ingenuity
in imitating the European watches that are imported into China in
great numbers. Among the Chinese, the day is divided as by the
ancient Egyptians, into twelve parts only, consisting each, of two Eu-
ropean hours; the first beginning at eleven at night.
112
Those portions of time are measured with tolerable accuracy by means
of a lighted taper made from the pith of a particular tree, of which the
consumption by ignition is so regular, that divided into twelve equal
parts, each continues burning during the twelfth part of the twenty-four
hours.
Time is also measured by them with sand, and liquid glasses, as in this
country.
The Chinese often employ very awkward and laborious means for
effecting the several purposes desirable in society. To announce the
hour, even in Pekin, they have no better method than that of striking
with a mallet upon a large bell, a number of blows corresponding to
that of the hour, by a person who must wait and watch the progress of
time, as indicated by some of the methods just described.
A Chinese gentleman invariably wears a pair of watches of European
manufacture, one on each side his girdle, in an embroidered pocket; if
questioned as to the meaning of this seeming extravagance, his reply
is, “Suppose one make stop, the other walkee.”
74.
75.
Curious root of a tree, resembling birds.
A grotesque figure carved from a section of the bamboo.
76. China incense vessel, in imitation of bronze.
77. Antique porcelain incense vessel.
78. Lacquered box for various uses.
79. Porcelain vessel, of singular device, to contain flowers.
80. Lacquered box to contain sweetmeats.
81. A root having the form of a dog's head, and the feet and tail of a
bird.
82 & 83. Two porcelain plates, on polished stands of hard wood.
84. A lacquered box, used in gaming.
85.
Lacquered box, as No. 80.
86. Curious sun-dial and compass.
87. Box for holding writing pencils. The panels are of white
marble, bearing moral maxims.
88. Hand furnace of white copper, described in No. 68.
89 & 90. Two grotesque images in clay.
91. Carved section of bamboo, used as pencil-holder.
113
92 & 93. Two porcelain figures.
94. Lacquered box, containing several cakes of Chinese, or as it is
mis-called, Indian Ink, manufactured from lamp black and
gluten, with the addition of a little musk to give it a more
agreeable odour.
95 & 96. Two porcelain figures.
97.
Another in clay.
98. Curious sun-dial and compass, as No. 86.
99. Lacquered case, inlaid with pearl shell, to contain cakes of ink.
100. China plate and stand.
101. Rack for jos-stick, which is generally burned in every house day
and night, the drawers are to hold tobacco and tinder for pipes.
A red lacquered vessel, for culinary purposes.
102.
103 & 104. A small pair of painted marble tablets, on a polished stand
of hard wood.
105. A model of a Chinese coffin.
The slabs of wood are sometimes of enormous sizes, being frequently
of some domestic, or foreign, odoriferous wood, &c. In these huge coffins,
the dead are frequently kept many years above ground, from superstitious
motives, such as the selection of a fortunate spot for burial, a particular
season, &c.
Cedar is the usual material; the thickness of the slabs
according with the means of the purchaser. These planks are selected
with great care, and are brought home with music and feasting during
a person's life time. The emperor prepares his coffin on the day of
his ascending the throne. The Chinese have an idea that to do so
prolongs life. The garments for a corpse are also prepared in the life-
time of the person for whom they are intended.
In former days,
garments were presented to the friends of a deceased person, intended
to clothe the corpse; in more modern usage, money is given instead of
clothing. From this practice arises the phrase "Respectful contribution
to the coffining," which is written on the envelope of a small present
sent to the person who presides at the funeral; a universal practice.
Ages ago, it was the custom to secure the lid of the coffin by binding
it with cords, when not nailed. The grave is termed "The eternal
mansion," and the " Ten thousand years felicitous ground.".
H
select-
114
ing a grave," they say, three things are to be avoided ;-sand, water,
and (white) ants." The present law provides that the limits of a grave
shall extend seven cubits, within which space no other person has a
right to bury.
106. Swan-pan or reckoning board, in universal use among the Chinese.
It consists of an oblong frame of wood, with a bar running lengthwise,
forming two compartments; through this bar, at right angles, are
usually placed seventeen (but sometimes more) small pins, having on
each seven balls; five on one side, and two on the other side of the bar.
Any ball in the larger compartment, being placed against the bar, is
called unity; and on the left of this they increase, and on the right they
decrease by tens, hundredths, &c.; the corresponding balls, in the
smaller compartment, increase or decrease by fifths, fiftieths, &c.
By these means, all numbers in the common transactions of business,
integral or decimal, are computed with much ease and rapidity.
107, 108 & 109. Three small boxes, beautifully ornamented and
lacquered, having several compartments in each.
They are each of a different shape, one being in the form of a butterfly,
another representing an open fan, and the third, that of a mulberry leaf.
110. Lady's writing-case, containing rouge, dice, swan-pan, snuff,
writing materials, looking-glass, &c. &c.
111. Cameo, in a stand of polished hard wood.
112. Lacquered tea-caddy, with white copper, do. inside.
113. Four small marble idols.
114. Swan-pan, as No. 106.
115. Lacquered tub, for various uses.
116.
117.
Two walking sticks, cut from the Chinese vine. The handle of
one of these is carved in the form of a bat with outstretched
wings. The bat is the Chinese emblem of happiness.
A square red lacquered box, for various uses.
118. Lacquered stand for fruit.
119. A red lacquered box, in the form of a melon.
120.
A richly veined marble tablet, on a stand of polished ebony.
121. Small case of drawers of iron wood, used by lapidaries.
122. Gentlemen's dressing case containing every requisite.
115
123. Another small lacquered box, in the form of a Chinese gentle-
man's purse, having several smaller boxes in the interior.
124. Chinese compass and sun-dial, described in No. 73.
125. Ancient bronze incense vessel, with carved stand and cover of
polished wood, and handle of red coral.
126.
Another of different form.
127. A lacquered box containing Chinese water colors.
128. Corresponding with No. 120.
129. A square lacquered box for various purposes.
130. Lacquered circular box with handle, used in carrying fruit and
vegetables.
131. A box to contain trinkets, of singular form.
132. A richly ornamented box, to contain dried fruits.
133. Red lacquered fan case.
134. A Chinese merchant's sign-suspended at the door post, or the
135.
136.
interior of his shop.
Another of different form.
A fan case, as No. 133.
137. A richly ornamented lacquered case of singular form, containing
smaller boxes for the reception of trinkets.
138.
A gentleman's dressing case, and glass.
139. A pair of scales, very accurately adjusted, with a complete set of
weights.
These are used in weighing specie. In the shops of the Chinese may
frequently be seen sentences written over their scales; as, “Daily weigh
a thousand pieces of gold,"-expressive of the wishes of the shop-
keeper.
140. Model of a bridge at Fo Shan, near Canton, built of granite, and
of excellent workmanship.
Bridges in the vicinity of the city, are constructed as footways, though
horses are sometimes taken over. Fo Shan is a village situated a few
miles to the S. W. of Canton, and is famous for the manufacture of
black satin, and contains about 500,000 persons.
141. A pair of cuspadors of white metal.
142. Lacquered fan case of circular form.
H 2
116
CASE XI.
MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES.
143 to 148. Six specimens of carved bamboo roots.
This is a kind of ornament highly esteemed by the Chinese. The more
distorted the roots, and the more hideous the figures wrought upon them,
the greater is the pleasure they afford.
"Gorgons, hydras, and chimeras dire—”
the wildest forms that nature has revealed, or imagination invented, please
best the superstitious fancy of this marvel-loving people.
149.
Metallic vessel called, Heang-loo," to contain the ashes of jos-
stick, (composed of powdered sandal-wood, &c.) and consumed
before idols. On the face of this vessel is inscribed the cha-
racters Fuh Show, happiness and long life.”
150. A pair of candlesticks to accompany the above.
151. Small clay model of Lob creek pagoda, on the Canton river.
152. A pair of cuspadors, or spittoons, formed of white metal.
153 to 155. Three specimens of carved bamboo roots, as described in
Nos. 143 to 148.
156.
Vessel of a peculiar ware, resembling cast iron in its appearance,
on a stand of the same material.
157. The head of an official staff or crozier, called Seh chang, carried
in the hand by the head of the Buddha sect.
158.
Ancient and beautiful yellow vase, on a stand, ornamented with a
raised green dragon.
A mythological emblem of the great dragon attempting to swallow
the moon; believed, by the Chinese, to be the cause of the eclipse
of that nocturnal luminary. From this superstitious notion, whenever
an eclipse occurs, a tumult is
raised by the natives with gongs, drums,
and other noisy instruments, to frighten away the imaginary monster.
159. Porcelain pencil-holder.
160. Image of a beggar in clay.

RM
?
117
161. Bronzed clay figure.
162. Two grotesque lions, on stands.
163. Specimen of china ware, on a stand, resembling Wedgwood.
164. Ancient metallic mirror, on a carved stand of hard wood.
165.
166.
Lamp, as 70.
These
A distorted root of the bamboo, resembling a man, &c.
curious specimens are highly valued in China, and afford a
good example of the peculiar national tastes.
167. Two pillows of leather (pig's skin) embossed.
168. Three idols of Buddha or Fůh.
169. Ancient bronze vase.
170. Coloured marble Buddha idol.
171. Specimen of sculpture in marble, with ebony stand.
172. Ancient bronze vase, as No. 169.
173 & 174. Two figures in papier maché, representing priests of Fuh.
175. China plate and stand.
176. An instrument used by Chinese watchmen, for the purpose of
giving alarm.
It is an excavated block of wood, and when struck by a piece of
bamboo, produces a loud noise. On this the night patrols repeat the
hours. The whole night is divided into five watches, commencing at
seven o'clock P. M. and are sometimes announced by the gong, or a
drum, or else as above described.
177. Specimen of painted marble in stand, placed on tables, as orna-
ments.
178. Metallic mirror, as No. 164.
179. Cameo in stand.
180.
181.
China vessel, with stand and cover, for incense.
Jos-bell and stand, used in temples, and accompanies No. 183.
182. Splendid cameo, presented to Mr. Dunn by Houqua, the Hong
merchant. This cameo is of extraordinary size. It repre-
sents an extended landscape, including earth and sky, and
embracing various rural scenes and objects.
183. Bronzed incense vessel and stand, used in temples.
184. Ancient porcelain incense vessel, with wooden stand and top.
118
185. Singular specimen of sculpture, in coloured marble.
186. Specimen of painted marble on stand, placed on tables as orna-
ments, as No. 177.
187. Common pillow of rattan.
188. Pillows used in summer, called Chin-tow" the bamboo slats
on the top are elastic, and generally hard.
189. Model of a bridge of one arch, near Canton.
190. Elastic pillow made of bamboo, and covered with glazed leather.
191. Wooden bellows, worked with a piston, and so constructed as
to produce a continuous blast.
In this horizontal box is placed a moveable door, so nicely fitted,
that when it is drawn back, a vacuum is created in the interior, into
which, the air rushing through an opening protected by a valve, pro-
duces a blast through an opposite aperture.
The same is produced when a door is pushed in an opposite direction:
the space within it being diminished, and the air compressed, a part of
it is forced out through the same aperture.
CASE XII.
CHINA-WARE.
192 & 193.
194 & 195.
Flower-pots of a peculiar ware, resembling cast iron.
A pair of porcelain flower-pots.
196 & 197.
A pair of beautiful flower jars.
198. Square porcelain vase.
199.
Sweetmeat vessel.
200. Porcelain drums for supporting the arms on couches.
201. Vases of various forms.
202. Porcelain flower vase on a stand, with sentences in blue and gold
characters.
203. Very ancient square jar.
204 & 205. Two flower jars of different forms. They are of ancient
make, and their surface is apparently cracked. This art is

I
119
produced in the burning, and is believed by the Chinese to be
extinct.
206 & 207. Two porcelain flower jars.
208. A pair of yellow figured vases.
209. Porcelain bottle, for travelling purposes.
210. A beautifully enamelled yellow vase.
211 to 213.
Three ancient porcelain figures, emblematical of the three
principal felicities so much esteemed by the Chinese, viz.:—
happiness, (official employment or promotion,) longevity, and
male children.
214. A porcelain vase from the interior, more than five hundred years
old. As the Chinese attach great veneration to antiques, its
cost was in proportion.
There is a prevalent idea among the Chinese, that antique vases have
the property of preserving flowers which are placed in them, fresh and
blooming, for a long time.
215 & 216. A pair of beautifully painted porcelain jars.
217 & 218. Flower-vases of recent make.
219. A large ornamental vase, from Nankin.
220. Bottle-shaped jar, cracked in the burning.
221. An ornamented vase on stand.
222.
Ancient vase on stand.
223 & 224. A pair of porcelain pipe-stands from Nankin: these are
used in the houses of the wealthy, and are placed near the
doors, from which guests are supplied with pipes.
225. A small flower-vase, with three orifices for one flower each.
226.
Ancient and beautiful vase, ornamented with a lizard.
227. Beautiful yellow vase, elegantly ornamented with raised figures.
228. A vase cracked in the burning, of great beauty.
229. A large and richly ornamented vase, from Nankin.
230 & 231. A pair of rare and curious vases from Nankin. This style
of decoration is peculiarly esteemed by the Chinese.
232 & 233.
234 & 235.
A pair of ditto, of modern make.
Pair of porcelain sugar jars, richly ornamented in blue
and gold.
120
236 & 237. A pair of vases, as Nos. 232-233.
238. An ancient porcelain jar, discoloured by time. Its age is above
three hundred years.
239. A very elegant porcelain bowl of enormous dimensions.
240. Four flower pots of a peculiar ware resembling cast iron.
241 & 242. A pair of octagon flower pots, elegantly painted and gilt.
243 to 246. Four vases of different forms.
247. A porcelain vessel to contain rice.
248 & 249.
250 & 251.
252 & 253.
254 & 255.
A pair of china fluted garden pots and stands.
A pair of flower pots and stands superbly painted.
Ditto of modern style.
Porcelain flower jars in the form of a cabbage, (called by
the Chinese pe-tsae, or white greens,” from the stalks of the
leaf being blanched.)
256 & 257. Two beautiful china bowls, richly painted and gilt.
258, 259, & 260. Three ditto of different devices.
261. A porcelain figure of a female deity.
262. An elegant porcelain candlestick.
263. Ancient porcelain vessel, used to contain fans, feather brushes,
&c. &c.
264 & 265. Porcelain garden seats, richly painted; called by the
Chinese, "Shih-koo," or stone drum.
266 & 267. Ditto of different form and style.
CASE XIII.
CHINA-WARE.
268. A white porcelain vase.
269.
Porcelain vase on stand.
270. Ditto to imitate bronze.
271. Antique porcelain bottle on stand.
121
272. A green flower vase.
273 to 275.
276.
Three vases of different forms.
Three ancient idols in white porcelain.
277. Ancient and beautifully formed vase, ornamented with lizards.
278. Ancient white porcelain jar, exquisitely figured.
279. A porcelain jar of a beautiful colour.
280 & 281. Two Porcelain landmarks, to designate the boundaries of
adjoining estates, upon which the owner's name and the four
cardinal points (as enumerated by them, east, west, south and
north) are inscribed upon the sides.
The lands of separate owners in China, are not divided as with us, by
hedges, walls, or fences, but by a narrow pathway and sometimes by a
ditch or drain; and so great is their economy of cultivated soil, that this
custom appears to be universal in every part of China.
Upon the authority of Mr. Dunn, whose long residence in that country
afforded him every opportunity of gaining correct information; the clan-
destine, or violent removal of these landmarks, ensures to the perpetrator
the most signal punishment.
It is here especially worthy of remark, that this ancient usage, sanc-
tioned and protected by the laws of a heathen nation, should be so fully
confirmed and strengthened by holy writ. We have a corroboration of
this custom in Deuteronomy, 19 ch. 14 ver.
Thou shall not remove
thy neighbour's landmark, which they of old time
have set in thine inherit-
ance," &c., and again in Proverbs, 22 ch. 28 ver. "Remove not the ancient
landmarks, which thy fathers have set."
282 & 283. A pair of beautifully painted and gilt jars.
284. Very ancient and beautiful square jar, on a stand, from the in-
terior.
285 & 286. Garden seats.
287. A section of ornamental porcelain, intended as a coping to walls
and houses.
288 & 289.
290 & 291.
292 & 293.
A pair of beautifully painted flower pots.
A pair of blue flower vases.
Do. vases, very beautiful, on account of the color and
glazing.
122
294 & 295. Two white and figured porcelain vases.
296. A variegated green porcelain flower vase.
297. Ancient porcelain bottle, ornamented with lizards.
298. Beautifully painted vase on a stand.
299 & 300. A pair of richly ornamented vases.
301. A porcelain cuspador.
302 & 303. A pair of extremely rich flower vases, ornamented with
lizards.
304. Model of the famous porcelain pagoda at Nankin, formerly the
capital of the empire, as it originally appeared, being now
partially dilapidated by age.
The original is merely roofed with porcelain, and not, as might be
imagined from the name, constructed of that material.
This stately
structure is nearly 200 feet in height. At the angles of the eaves of each
story are suspended brass bells, diminishing in size as they approach the
top, and put in motion by the wind. This custom appears to have had
some religious sanction, which time has long effaced.
generally supposed to have had a religious character.
Staunton, on the contrary, says, they are dedicated to several uses in
China, without specifying what; but none to religious worship.
305. Specimen of painting on porcelain, on stand.
306 & 307. A pair of very large rich vases from Nankin.
308.
Smaller ditto.
309.
An ornamental ancient vase from Nankin.
Pagodas are
Sir George
310 & 311. A pair of exquisitely painted and gilt sugar jars.
312 & 313. A pair of richly painted and gilt vases of beautiful form.
314. Antique bottle-shaped vase from the northern provinces. The
style and painting of this vase is greatly esteemed by the
Chinese. Its age is above three hundred years.
315 & 316.
317 & 318.
319 & 320.
321 & 322.
A pair of blue porcelain hexagon garden seats.
A pair of colored ditto.
A pair of porcelain garden seats, beautifully painted and gilt.
A pair of hexagon do. do.
323. A blue and white porcelain vase.
324. A blue and white square do., from Nankin.
123
1
An ancient painted circular flower vase.
325.
326 & 327.
328 & 329.
A pair of superb octagon flower stands.
A pair of square do. beautifully painted.
330 & 331.
A pair of highly painted porcelain cuspadors.
332. A blue and green flower vase, a beautiful specimen of porcelain
from Nankin.
333. An ancient bottle-shaped vase from Nankin, age unknown.
334 & 335. A pair of beautifully painted vases of modern make.
336. Curious flower-pot, with figures, &c. representing a besieged
castle, in the interstices of which flowers are planted.
This is a specimen of the coarser kind of stone ware, and of which
they display a great abundance of singular devices in their flower gar-
dens. Artificial grotto work, images of all kinds, as well as table furni-
ture, are also made by the potter or porcelain burner. In burning the
ware, the contrivances to save fuel are sometimes very ingenious, and
exhibit the economy of the Chinese.
337 to 339. Three porcelain garden seats of various forms.
The porcelain manufacture undoubtedly had its origin in China, and
we must, therefore, hold ourselves indebted to the Chinese for all that
rich variety of useful and ornamental porcelain articles, which load our
tables, and adorn our parlours and cabinets. It was introduced to the
knowledge of Europeans by the famous Venetian traveller, Marco Polo.
The first furnace on record was in Keang-se, which dates as far back as
the commencement of the seventh century of our era. King-tih-chin,
a place near the Poyang lake, is now the most celebrated for this manu-
facture. The factories were commenced there about A. D. 1000, and have
increased to the number of several hundred. Sir G. Staunton says that the
flames which issue from them cause the place to appear at night like a
vast city enveloped in a general conflagration. The spectacle is terrific
and sublime. The furnaces give employment to the male working por-
tion of a population said to amount to a million. The division of labour
is carried to its acme. A tea-cup, from the time when it lies embedded
in its native quarries, till it comes forth in perfection from the furnace,
passes through more than fifty different hands. The painting alone is
divided among a half dozen persons, one of whom sketches the outline
124
of a bird, another of a plant, a third of some other figure, while a fourth
fills in the colours. The brilliancy of their colouring has never been sur-
passed; but the designing can hardly be commended or admired. The
reason probably is, that no higher wages are paid to those who labour in
this department of the manufacture, than to those who perform the
coarser operations.
It is perfectly obvious from an inspection of the articles embraced in
this collection, that the excellence of the porcelain manufacture has been
on the decline for the last three centuries. The present deterioration, as
well as the high degree of perfection it had once attained, are easily
explained. The emperors who flourished about that period encouraged
the manufacture by munificent premiums on the most beautiful specimens,
and by large annual orders for the finer wares. A premium of 15,000
taels, or more than 20,000 dollars, was bestowed on the manufacturer of the
best specimen; 10,000 taels on him who produced the second-best;
while third-rate excellence received a reward of 5,000. The emperors
no longer bestow any special encouragement, and hence the decline of
competition, and consequently of excellence.
The origin of the word porcelain, or porcellana, may not be generally
known. Marsden, as quoted by Davis, shows that it was applied by the
Europeans to the ware of China, from the resemblance of its finely
polished surface to that of the univalve shell so named; while the shell
itself derived its appellation from the curved shape of its upper surface,
which was thought to resemble the raised back of a porcella, or
little hog.
CASE XIV.
CHINESE BOATS.
ALL the models of boats in this collection have been made by reducing
the dimensions to the proper scale; and in every particular, even to the
employment of the same descriptions of wood, the oars, sculls, rudders,
setting poles, cordage, &c., are fac-similes of those actually in use.

T-GILKS SU
ON
125
340. A canal boat of the smaller size.
341. Another of the largest class, capable of carrying several hundred
tons. These boats are employed in transporting teas and
other merchandise on the canals and rivers.
342. A small Chinese family boat, called San-pan, or
planks."
Three
Of this description there are estimated to be upwards of 40,000 on
the Canton river near the city, containing a population of more than
200,000 souls. These boats are regularly licensed by government.
The husband finds employment on shore, while the wife has charge of
the floating domicile. These women seek a maintenance in carrying
passengers to the neighbouring places. The cleanliness of their boats is
remarkable. The late Dr. Morrison, speaking of this tribe of people
(Tan-hoo), who, at Canton, live entirely in boats, says-" They were
originally fishermen who came from the south to Canton, and are con-
sidered a distinct race, whose origin cannot be traced. They seem
to have been named from the figure of their boats resembling an egg.'
These boats are from twelve to fifteen feet in length. Some of the old
accounts of Canton say, that on the river live many thousand souls,
who were never permitted to come on shore," and these "are descendants
of Tartars." The people who live in boats originally came from the
south, and being a foreign race, were not permitted to dwell on shore: but
were placed under the charge of an officer called Ho-po-so, " The an-
choring place officer," and paid a tax in fish. In marriage they made
no previous betrothment, the man who wanted a wife, placed a platter
of straw on the end of his oar, and the female who accepted this offer,
did the same with a basket of flowers, after which they united in singing
barbarous songs. Poor people on shore still consider it degrading to
marry with them; but most of the distinctions however between them
and the rest of the people were removed by the Emperor Keen-Lung,
under the influence of general principles of equity.
343. A "chop-boat," employed as a lighter in transporting car-
goes up and down the river, to and from foreign vessels at
Whampoa.
344.
A private gentleman's family boat. In China, these floating
126
domiciles on the rivers, and the sedan chair on land, form their
principal means of conveyance.
Wheeled carriages are but little used in China, especially in the
southern and eastern parts, and in the vicinity of large rivers, where
boats are made to serve in their stead; most of those that are employed
have but two wheels, and are very rude in their construction. Some
very good pictures of the ancient carriages may be seen in the illustra-
tions of the "Four books."-(See Case XL.)
345. A mandarin boat, or revenue cutter, for the prevention of smug-
gling.
These vessels are of a beautiful model for rowing boats, being fifty to
seventy feet long, sharp in the bows, and low in the middle; they carry
a small gun on the bow. When pulled by fifty or sixty oarsmen, they
will advance at the rate of ten to fifteen miles an hour. The fast crab
boats are similar to them in shape, and are used principally by smugglers
and fishermen.
The immense variety of boats that literally crowd the waters of China,
may be divided into two classes; those that have eyes and those without
them. To the former class belong the military and trading junks, that
navigate the "great sea." There is an exact representation of one
of these in a painting on one of the panels of the screen-work, before
noticed. They are nearly in the shape of a new moon, and as clumsy
a craft as could well be contrived, having sterns at least thirty feet
above the water, and bows the third of that height. The emperor not
only affords no encouragement to improvement, but actually discourages
it, in the exaction of foreign port-duties from junks constructed on
improved principles. These vessels have always a great eye painted on
each side of the bows. This usage had its origin probably in some
superstition. If a Chinese is questioned as to its cause, his reply is,—
Have eye, can see; can see, can savez: no have eye, no can see;
no can see, no savez."
The variety of craft used upon the inland waters of China is very
great. There are models of nearly all the different kinds in the case
before us.
These all appear well contrived for the purposes to which
they are applied, and are by no means destitute of beauty. They are
127
provided with bamboo, or mat sails, used only occasionally, and as in
almost every other custom contrary to our own, they reef them by
reducing the lower part of the sail, instead of the upper as usual with
us. They are generally propelled by sculling, a method which is made
absolutely necessary by the number of boats always in motion. The skill
with which the Chinese perform this operation, confirms the old proverb,
practice makes perfect;" for the boat is made to dart forward
at a rapid rate, and in a line as direct as any well managed sailing vessel
could pursue.
The foreign sailors sometimes try their skill, but make
a sorry business of it.
that
The rudder of a junk is very large, compared with that of a ship;
it takes the place in great measure of a keel in keeping the vessel to the
wind, and is managed by a tiller proportionably large; it is hoisted by a
wheel in shallow water. The rudder itself has numerous rhomboidal
holes cut in it, from a notion that the eddying of the water through
them causes more resistance than a plain board.
A lively scene presents itself on their rivers, in the trial of strength
and skill in boat racing. It occurs annually on the fifth day of the fifth
moon. The candidates for victory are numerous, and happy is he who
out-strips his competitors. On this day also, an ancient rite is performed
upon the surface of the river. A quantity of rice is bound up in a
certain leaf with silk cords of various colours, then boiled and thrown
into the water as a sacrifice to the manes of Keih-yuen, a minister of
state, beloved by the people, who, having been falsely accused, drowned
himself about 300 years B.C. The same observance continues to this
day, and is annually performed, accompanied by the amusement of
dragon-boats, and beating of drums, intended to strike awe into the
evil spirits that may lurk about the river.
346. A model of a boat used on the canals near Pekin, for the con-
veyance of grain, forming a part of the government revenue
derived from a tax on land.
It is especially appropriated for this purpose; the Chinese name is
Tsaou-chuen." Of these there are said to be no less than 10,000
belonging to the government, independent of individual owners.
Their average burthen, Mr. Davis remarks, is about 2,000 peculs, or
128
above a hundred tons; but being flat-bottomed, and very high out of the
water, they have the appearance of a much greater capacity. The total
number annually unladen is nearly 50,000; they chiefly sail up from the
southern provinces during the fourth moon, or about June, when the
monsoon is favourable, and return empty in the ninth moon, or No-
vember.
347. A Chinese port clearance, called "Hung pae," "the red declar-
ation," locally called "The Grand Chop."
It is an official passport from the Viceroy and Hoppo.* It states the
captain's name, the tonnage and cargo of the vessel, and the compli-
ance, on the part of the former, with the customary port requisitions.
It requires the commander of the fort to allow the ship to pass unmo-
lested, and, in case of any accident befalling her anywhere on Chinese
waters, it enjoins upon the mandarins to render every aid in their
power, free of all charges. This must certainly be regarded as a liberal
policy. Before a chop can be obtained, the Hong merchant to whom
the vessel has been consigned, must certify to the proper officers that
all the necessary conditions have been complied with on the part of her
officers, and that no debts remain.
The following is the law with respect to shipwrecked foreigners,
given in the form of an imperial edict, dated the second year of Keën-
lung, A. D. 1737 :—
Along the whole extent of our coast, it continually happens that
foreign ships and people are driven on shore by gales of wind. It is
hereby ordered, that the Governors and Lieutenant-governors of pro-
vinces take the lead, and cause officers to be particularly attentive in
affording compassion; that they employ the public money to bestow
food and raiment on the sufferers, and to refit their ships: after which,
that they cause their goods to be returned, and see that they are sent
home to their own country. This is done to manifest the extremely
tender feelings of my imperial mind towards men from remote regions.
Take this order and command it to be an everlasting law.-Respect
this."
* The hoppo is the chief custom-house officer, or collector of the port.
129
348. A model of the pagoda near Whampoa, of nine stories, and about
170 feet high.
The "Tă," or pagodas, are very common in the interior of China
they consist of three, five, seven, nine, and even thirteen stories. They
are generally placed on some eminence, and often on the tops of high
hills. Within they are hollow, have windows in each story, and often
a winding staircase leading to the top, contained in the wall of the
building. The name of the pagoda represented in this model is "Chih
kang tă." The second-bar pagoda (well known to all who have visited
Canton) is called
Sze tsze yang tǎ." Pa chow tă" is a famous
pagoda, in the province of Canton, built about A.D. 1600; but that at
Nankin is at the head of these lasting monuments of ancient architec-
ture. They are of a religious character, and several still remain that
are connected with religious establishments. The dimensions of the
latter at Nankin are nearly 200 feet in height, with an octagonal ground
plan. In niches at the sides of the spiral stair-case are placed Buddha
images.
CASE XV.
MODELS OF CHINESE SUMMER HOUSES.
349 & 350. Two models of summer-houses, of two stories each, usual
in the gardens of the wealthy, in the southern provinces of
China.
It is somewhat singular that the dwellings of the Chinese bear a resem-
blance, in their plan and arrangements, to the remains of Roman habitations
discovered at Pompeii. They consist usually of a ground floor,* divided
into several apartments within the dead wall that fronts the street, and
* When the Emperor Keen-lung saw a perspective view of a street in Paris or
London, he observed that the territory must be very small whose inhabitants were
obliged to pile their houses to the clouds.
In the poem on London, by a Chinese visitor, it is stated—
"The houses are so lofty that you may pluck the stars."
I
130
lighted only by windows looking into the internal court yard. The
principal room next the entrance serves to receive visitors as well as for
eating; and within are the more private apartments, the doorways of
which are screened by pendant curtains of embroidered velvet, silk or
cotton. All houses of consequence are entered by a triple gateway,
consisting of one large door in the centre, with a smaller one on each side·
The central one is only opened for such guests as arrive in sedans,
those who come on foot enter the side doors right and left. Just
within the gates is the covered court, in which the sedan chairs are
placed. Some of the courts are surrounded with verandahs, balconies
and colonnades displaying hundreds of pillars. On the grounds attached
to the mansions of the wealthy, are artificial ponds or lakes, in which are
cultivated their favourite lotus or water lily. In the centre of the sheet
of water, is a temporary building, of elegant design and workmanship,
supported on piers, and occupied occasionally as a place of refreshment,
and these are frequently made use of for the exhibition of private theatrical
performances, for the entertainment of the guests.
351. A model of a one-story summer house.
352.
This
A model of a two story summer-house, in the northern provinces,
of exquisite workmanship, and completely furnished.
affords a good specimen of mother-of-pearl windows. The
summer-houses often stand in the midst of a sheet of water,
and are approached by bridges.
353. Bridge at Honan, near Canton, built of granite.
354.
A domestic shrine, with three golden images, candlesticks, and
an incense burner. These are found in every house and boat in
China, and are of various sizes and devices, according to the
means of the occupants.
355. Two storied summer-house carved in gypsum.
On the wall are a pair of tablets, on which are maxims, very ingeni-
ously wrought in bamboo; also birds, flowers, fruit, &c.
131
No. XVI.
A CHINA-WARE SHOP.
A two story house as seen in the streets of Canton.
The lower part
is fitted up as a retail China shop, and affords a very correct representa-
tion of a similar establishment in China.
In the front of the counter is a small niche, within which is a shrine
to Plutus, and by offering incense to it the tradesman hopes to get
rich; very often the names of other divinities are inscribed in the niche
along with that of the god of wealth. On a pillar in front of the door,
hangs a small tablet, on which is inscribed, Săng ne, mëen tsin, "Priests
and beggars are not allowed to enter here:" this is frequently placed
in a similar position, to prevent the intrusion of persons soliciting charity.
For a general description of the streets of Canton, the visitor is re-
ferred to the remarks under the view of the city of Canton, No. 1042.
No. XVII.
A SILK MERCER'S ESTABLISHMENT.
THE PROPRIETOR BEHIND THE COUNTER MAKING CALCULATIONS ON HIS
COUNTING-BOARD.
CLERK ENTERING GOODS, (ON THE LEFT.)
A PURCHASER IN FRONT OF THE COUNTER.
ANOTHER PURCHASER EXAMINING A PIECE OF BLACK SILK.
A CHINESE GENTLEMAN SMOKING.
A SERVANT PREPARING BREAKFAST.
ANOTHER SERVANT LOOKING THROUGH THE SCREEN OR SUMMER DOOR.
CIRCULAR TABLE, WITH BREAKFAST FURNITURE.
A BLIND BEGGAR AT THE DOOR ASKING ALMS.
We have here a representation of a silk mercer's shop as seen in
the streets of Canton, completely furnished.
This house and shop
I 2
132
is the same size as the one previously noticed, and has been ar-
ranged so as to afford an exact idea of a Chinese retail establish-
ment. The scene which it offers to our view, is more life-like than
any thing else in the collection. Two purchasers have been placed
at the counter, one of whom is scrutinizing a piece of silk that lies
before him. The owner, behind the counter, is carelessly leaning
forward, and intent on casting an account on the " calculating
dish," while his clerk is busy making entries in the book, in doing
which he shows the Chinese mode of holding a pencil, which is
placed perpendicularly between the thumb and all the fingers. It is
customary with the Chinese shopkeepers to eat their daily meals in their
places of business; in the present instance, a servant is preparing
breakfast. The Chinese are early risers; they have a saying, “who-
ever would effect any affair must employ the morning." In the
present Viceroy of Canton, may be found a striking instance of this
habit; he may be frequently seen transacting business at four o'clock
in the morning. The Emperor also affords a similar example to the
court. A circular eight-legged table, very similar to those used by our
great-grandfathers, is spread at the end of the shop. Among its
furniture the ivory chop-sticks are the most novel. On the visitor's
left hand sits a gentleman with a pipe, apparently a chance comer,
"just dropped in" about meal-time; at the door, a blind beggar stands
beating two bamboo sticks against each other, an operation with which
he continues to annoy all whom he visits, till he is relieved by some
trifling gratuity, usually a single cash. A small covered tub filled with
tea, with a few cups near by, stands on the counter, from which cus-
tomers are always invited to help themselves. On a small tablet
placed upon the sliding door in front of the shelves, is inscribed the
characters, “Tih kae ta keĭh,' "Whenever opened, great success."
The merchants and shopkeepers of Canton, are prompt, active,
obliging, and able. They can do an immense deal of business in a
short time, and all without noise, bustle, or disorder. Their goods are
arranged in the most perfect manner, and nothing is ever out of its
place. These traits assimilate them to the more enterprising of the
western nations, and place them in prominent contrast with the rest of

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TICILKS.
133
the Asiatics. It is confidently asserted, by those who have had the best
opportunities of judging, that, as business men, they are in advance of
Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese merchants.
It may not be amiss to remark, in connection with commerce, and
business generally in China, that both pawnbroking and banking are
common in the large cities. The usual pawnbroking establishments are
similar to those of Europe, but governed by very strict laws, to prevent
the extortion of illegal and exorbitant interest. The banks are called
Money shops," and resemble, in some measure, the private banks of
England, each "Money shop" being owned by an individual or firm;
for there are no chartered or privileged banking companies allowed in
China. Both pawnbrokers and the proprietors of "money shops" must
be licensed, and they are not permitted to receive a higher interest than
two per cent. on clothing, and three per cent. a month on other goods,
or thirty per cent. a year; and three years are allowed for the redemption
of goods, at the expiration of which period, unredeemed pledges are
sold. Collectors of revenue deposit their receipts in the "Money
shops," the owners of which pay them to government, after deducting a
liberal allowance for waste, (as authorised by law,) in reducing the silver
to the quality of Government Sycee* (standard.) Private individuals
deposit sums in the "Money shops," and draw on them, interest being
sometimes agreed upon on either side; but the Chinese banks issue no
notes or money on their own responsibility.
The native sycee silver is used by officers and soldiers, and in the
payment of taxes, &c.; but in the markets, foreign coin (Spanish) is
exchanged for copper money.
Sycee silver is manufactured at the shops of native bankers. Suppose,
for example, that the officers of the several departments and districts are
wishing to pay over to the heads of the government the revenue arising
from the land-tax, and the various duties on merchandise, to go to the
banker's shops, and obtain the amount in pure silver, making up to the
bankers any deficiency there may be between it and the money they may
bring. The bankers having paid over into the provincial treasury the
* The term se-sze or "floss silk," is applied to the standard silver, as denoting its
fineness and purity, from whence comes the word sycee.
134
money for the officers, bring back a receipt for proof of the same.
Besides, those who have to pay the duties of salt, take the money to the
bankers who pay its equivalent in pure silver, at a rate of one or two
per cent. below that arising from the land-tax.
€
These banks have furnaces, in which the workmen place the silver to
fuse it, and then pour it into clay moulds, and in this way it is formed
into ingots, some of which are large and some small. After the metal
is cold and hard, it is thrown out of the mould,-the ingot having
upon it the date of a given year, of a given district, and perhaps also
the kind of tax for which it was cast to pay, with the names of the
workmen and the shop where it was cast.
in the provincial treasury, if found to be debased, inquiries can be made
respecting it at the shop, from which it came.
Then after it has been lodged
Silver mines exist in several parts of the empire, some of which may
have been already exhausted, and the working of others prohibited; but
the most extensive mines, and those from which the greater part of the
fine silver is obtained, are at Fo-shan, on the frontiers of Burmah.
There is a variety of amusing inscriptions on the scrolls hung up in
the interior of some of the shops, which serve at the same time to mark
the thrifty habits of the traders. A few specimens are subjoined :-
"Gossiping and long sitting injure business." Former customers have
inspired caution-no credit given.” A small stream always flowing."
"Goods genuine, prices true." "Trade circling like a wheel," &c.
The sight of the breakfast table induces naturally a few observations
on the articles of food and drink used by this people. The wealthier
Chinese are much addicted to gastronomic pleasures, and are as delicate
in their tastes as any other epicures; but pinching poverty makes the
mass as little fastidious as can well be conceived. They make little use
of beef or mutton, milk or butter, owing to the scarcity of pasturage.
To supply the place of the latter, the oil of the Sesamum orientale, and
also of the Ricinus communis or castor oil plant, are both made use of
by the Chinese, the process of cooking appears to deprive them both,
in a great measure, of their detergent qualities. Of animal food, the
most universal is pork. Their maxim is, "The scholar forsakes not
his books, nor the poor man his pig." Immense quantities of fish are
135
consumed. Ducks are reared in immense numbers, and wild fowl, of vari-
ous species, are abundant. The flesh of dogs, cats, rats, and mice, enters
into the bill of fare of the Chinese poor. The larvæ of the sphinx-moth,
and a grub bred in the sugar-cane, are much relished, as also sharks'
fins, the flesh of wild horses, the sea-slug, and a soup made of a species
of birds'-nests. The paws of bears are also considered by Chinese epi-
cures as a very delicate dish; they are said to be brought from Man-
chouria for the table.
The Dytiscus, or water-beetle is sometimes captured for food; and
silk-worms (after they have spun the cocoon,) are also fried in oil for
the table; and in some seasons, locusts are served up in the same
manner. At an imperial feast, given to the last British embassy,
a soup concocted of mares' milk and blood was among the dishes. The
horse flesh and mares milk are confined to the Tartars; the birds'-nests
used only at ceremonies, and the sea-slug but seldom.
Of vegetables they have a large variety, the most common is the pe-
tsae or "white cabbage," so called from the leaf-stalks being blanched,
and resembles a turnip in its mode of growth. Immense quantities
of this vegetable are seen daily in their markets. It is prepared
and sold in a salted state. Rice is the most esteemed and the
most abundant. This is the chief thing for which they wish and
work. Certain sailors once asked Gutzlaff whether the western barbarians
used rice, and, as he was rather slow in replying, they exclaimed, “O,
the sterile regions of barbarians, which produce not the necessaries
of life; strange that the inhabitants have not long ago died of
hunger!"
Chinese agriculturists excel in the cultivation of kitchen herbs and
vegetables, of which they raise a great variety and an abundant supply.
Their fort lies in this branch of gardening; and in the amount of vege-
tables produced from a single acre, probably no people exceed them.
By constant manuring, transplanting, and forcing, three, four, and even
five crops of vegetables are obtained from the same bed in twelve-
months.
For expeditious and easy cookery, no country perhaps surpasses
China. Fowls, pigs, rice and vermicelli, are dressed in temporary sheds
¿
136
erected in the open streets for the accomodation of the houseless pas-
senger.
Of such entertainments a hungry man may have enough and to spare
for a sum less than a half-penny. Hotels and places of entertainment,
except in large cities, are few in number, in consequence no doubt of
so many travellers going in boats. The names of those who take lodg-
ings in hotels and taverns are registered by the landlord, who is required
to keep his list open for the inspection of the magistracy.
There are large establishments in Canton that daily provide for
hundreds of the poorer classes, and one in particular, to the number of five
thousand persons and upwards. The required supply is weighed with
a scrupulous nicety to each individual; if the whole is consumed the
payment for the bulk is demanded, but if only a part is eaten, the
remaining portion is again weighed, and the guest obtains credit for the
balance. On board the small boats which line the banks of the streams
and inlets, the act of cookery is exhibited in a comprehensive manner.
A part of the deck is removed, which discloses a large boiler resting
upon an earthenware furnace, while the canopy of heaven supplies the
absence of a chimney. In this boiler the never omitted rice is prepared,
while the steam from it dresses the several basins resting upon a frame
work placed within it. The smith, on his return from labor at night,
lays aside his hammer and tongs, and sets on his pot of rice, perchance
two or three others of smaller dimensions for the dressing of certain
savory accompaniments.
making of pastry
Cakes of all sorts
The bakers in China are mainly employed in the
which seldom lacks either sugar or "shortening."
and sizes are made for the poor as well as the rich, rice serving in some
instances for the pastry instead of wheaten flour. A favorite sort of cake
is filled with minced meat, prepared by mixing pork, sugar, and other
ingredients together. The workman has a pile of dough on one side,
and a heap of minced meat on the other. He pulls a piece off the
former, rolls it up into a ball, flattens and covers it with meat, and then
rolls it up into a bail again. This ball is then put into a ring, and is
finally, by a stroke of the hand, flattened into a cake of a definite size
and thickness. The oven, or rather the baking apparatus, is unique in
137
form, and very ingenious in its principle.
A furnace, which resembles
one of our coppers, stands in the centre of an outhouse. The hollow
part is filled with charcoal; and a lid just fitting the aperture is
suspended by a chain from a beam above, and is capable of elevation or
depression. Upon this lid the cakes and other kinds of pastry are
placed, and it is moved to its position over the fire, or withdrawn from it,
by making the fulcrum turn round upon its axis, at the pleasure of the
workman.—The necessity for a peel is thus avoided, and the articles to
be baked can be ranged with an exact reference to order.
The Chinese are not at all accustomed to water-drinking, and drink
nothing cold. They distil from rice certain liquors resembling our beer,
wines, and whiskey, and a strong spirit called Samshoo, which is drank
warm in small cups at their meals, undiluted by water.
The grape,
though abundant, is not used for any such purpose.
This is drank in un-
The universal national beverage is tea.
stinted quantities by all classes of the people, from the self-styled
"Son of Heaven," to the occupant of the meanest hovel or sanpan.
Though the Chinese sometimes take three meals in a day; yet tea, which
they drink at all hours, is never served up for them with the formalities
of the European tea table. So enormous is the consumption of tea
by the natives, that M'Cartney is of opinion, that if the whole foreign.
demand should, by some accident, suddenly cease, the price of the
article would not be materially affected. Many of the wealthier natives
are exceedingly fastidious in their taste, which they gratify by the use
of teas obtained at prices that would startle us by their enormity, and
seldom using any but what has been kept a long time. It is, however,
only the very rich and the very luxurious who indulge in such extrava-
gance.
CASE XVIII.
356. Model of a boat of the largest size, appropriated to pleasure par-
ties, called "Hwa-chow," i. e. a flower-boat, and frequently
occupied by the wealthy classes in summer evenings.
138
357. Pair of swords, to be used by both hands, but having one sheath.
The object in using this weapon is to hamstring the enemy.
358. Numerous specimens of tobacco pipes of singular forms and
devices.
359. Opium pipes.
The mode of using opium in China is by smoking. In preparing the
drug for use, it is made into a decoction resembling molasses, and is
vended clandestinely by the retailers by weight, in small china vessels.
The pipes used are generally of this form, the principle of construction
being the same in all. In smoking, the end of a fine wire is dipped into
the preparation; it is then held over a small lamp, and, lastly, in-
serted into the small aperture of the bowl of the pipe, which is held
in an inverted position. The smoke is inhaled, and retained as long as
possible by the person, in a reclining posture. The baneful effects of
this deleterious drug are set forth in a late memorial to the emperor from
one of the censors, laying open the evil in all its enormity, and showing
its prevalence among certain classes.
"I have learned," says he, that those who smoke opium, and even-
tually become its victims, have a periodical longing for it, which can only
be assuaged by the application of the drug at the regular time. If they
cannot obtain it when that daily period arrives, their limbs become de-
bilitated, a discharge of rheum takes place from the eyes and nose, and
they are altogether unequal to any exertion; but, with a few whiffs,
their spirits and strength are immediately restored in a surprising man-
This opium becomes, to opium smokers, their very life; and when
they are seized and brought before magistrates, they will sooner suffer a
severe chastisement than inform against those who sell it."
ner.
'
"I had the curiosity to visit the opium-smoker in his heaven; and
certainly it is a most fearful sight, although, perhaps, not so degrading
to the eye as the drunkard from spirits, lowered to the level of the brute,
and wallowing in his filth. The idiotic smile and death-like stupor
however, of the opium debauchee, has something far more awful to the
gaze than the bestiality of the latter.
The rooms
where they sit and smoke are surrounded by wooden couches, with places
for the head to rest upon, and generally a side room is devoted to
*
*
*
139
gambling. The pipe is a reed of about an inch in diameter, and the
aperture in the bowl for the admission of the opium is not larger than a
pin's head. The drug is prepared by boiling and evaporation to the
consistence of treacle, and a very small portion is sufficient to charge it,
one or two whiffs being the utmost that can be inhaled from a single
pipe, and the smoke is taken into the lungs as from the hookah in India.
On a beginner, one or two pipes will have an effect, but an old stager
will continue smoking for hours. At the head of each couch is placed
a small lamp, as fire must be held to the drug during the process of
inhaling; and from the difficulty of filling and properly lighting the pipe,
there is generally a person who waits upon the smoker to perform the
office. A few days of this fearful luxury, when taken to excess, will
give a pallid and haggard look to the face; and a few months, or even
weeks, will change the strong and healthy man into little better than an
idiot skeleton. The pain they suffer when deprived of the drug, after long
habit, no language can explain; and it is only when, to a certain degree,
under its influence, that their faculties are alive. In the houses devoted
to their ruin, these infatuated people may be seen, at nine o'clock in the
evening, at all the different stages; some entering half distracted to feed
the craving appetite they had been obliged to subdue during the day;
others laughing and talking wildly under the effects of a first pipe, whilst
the couches around are filled with their different occupants, who lie
languid, with an idiotic smile upon their countenance, too much under the
influence of the drug to care for passing events, and fast merging to the
wished-for consummation. The last scene in this tragic play is generally
a room in the rear of the building, a species of dead-house, where lie
stretched those who have passed into the state of insensibility the opium-
smoker madly seeks an emblem of the long sleep to which he is
blindly hurrying."*
360. An ivory ball, containing seven concentric spheres, cut from a
solid block.
361. Bridge of five arches, at Fa-tee, built of granite.
The solid and substantial manner in which the stone bridges are
built, can hardly fail to interest the visitor of this collection; while the
*Davis, vol. 2. p. 409.
140
style, buttresses, breakwaters, &c., will remind him of the modern
structures of London and of Europe generally. It is remarkable, that
the Chinese construct arches without key-stones, as will be seen on
reference to these models. The blocks of stone, or rather slabs,
which form the level of their bridges, are frequently fourteen feet long
by four or five in breadth; how they manage to place them in their
proper positions seems extraordinary, as no machinery for the purpose
has been found, and the Chinese assert it is accomplished merely by
manual labour.
362. Long duck gun with matchlock.
363.
Air-gun, (wooden barrel.)
364. Leaden balls for air-gun.
365. Small iron shot, used by sportsmen as a matter of economy.
366. Match rope.
367.
Chinese gunpowder, called Ho-yo, “fire drug.”
Although the proportions of the ingredients in the composition of this
article by the Chinese are nearly the same as those used by us, yet it is
ascertained that the quality of the former is far inferior to our own;,
probably on account of the imperfect admixture and impurities of the
ingredients. Nitre is the natural and daily produce of China, and being
one of the chief ingredients in its manufacture, as Sir George Staunton
observes, accordingly, the knowledge of gunpowder seems to be
coeval with that of the most distant historic events."
Saltpetre, powder, bows and arrows, cannon, and whatever pertains
to military affairs are prohibited as articles of trade in China.
The manufacture and sale of salt is a government monopoly, in the
hands of a distinct department, whose agents are found in every maritime
place to enforce the laws against making it, and to carry on the trade in
it; in consequence of its high price, the poorer Chinese endeavour in all
possible ways to economise its use.
368. Powder (buffalo) horns.
369. Small priming horn.
370. Specimens of brick, one of which was taken from the ancient
pagoda on Lob creek.
Sometimes the Chinese merely dry their bricks in the sun, but they
141
are generally burned sufficiently hard, that when kept out of water, the
wall is preserved from rapid decay. Their color is usually a light slate
blue, or as the Chinese describe them, ts'ing chun, "azure bricks."
371. Specimens of stones of which the bridge at Fa-tee is built.
CHINESE WATER WHEEL.
On the top of this case (No. XVIII.) is placed a model of a Chinese
water-wheel, worked by men in a similar way to a treadmill, called
Shwuy chay. Sir George Staunton says:-
"Most eastern nations seem to have been acquainted at an early period
with the machine for raising water, which was however, unknown in
Europe till the Saracens introduced it into Spain, in an imperfect state,
and under a very awkward form, being little more than wisps of hay
tied to a rope, which turned upon a wheel; one part of which being
immersed in the water, each wisp imbibed a portion of that fluid, and
discharged it at the upper surface of the wheel; but the Chinese pump
consists of a hollow wooden trunk, divided in the inside along the
middle by a board, into two compartments. Flat and square pieces of
wood, corresponding exactly to the dimensions of the cavity of the
trunk, are fixed to a chain which turns over a roller or small wheel,
placed at each extremity of the trunk. The square pieces of wood
fixed to the chain, move with it round the rollers, and lift up a volume
of water equal to the dimensions of the hollow trunk, and are therefore
called the lifters. The power used in working this machine is applicable
in three different ways. If the machine be intended to lift a great
quantity of water, several sets of large wooden arms are made to project
from various parts of the lengthened axis of the rollers, over which the
chains and lifters turn. Those arms are shaped like the letter T, and
made round and smooth for the foot to rest upon. The axis turns upon
two upright pieces of wood, kept steady by a pole stretched across them.
The machine being fixed, men treading upon the projecting arms of the
axis, and supporting themselves upon a beam across the uprights,
142
communicate a rotary notion to the chain, the lifters attached to which
draw up a constant and copious stream of water. This manner of
working the chain-pump is applied to the purpose of draining grounds,
transferring water from one pond or cistern to another, or raising it to
small heights out of rivers or canals. Another method of working this
machine is by yoking a buffalo or other animal to a large horizontal
wheel, connected by cogs with the axis of the rollers, over which the
lifters turn. This mode was observed by the present travellers only at
Chusan.
A small machine of this kind is worked merely by the hand, with the
assistance of a trundle and simple crank, such as are applied to a com-
mon grindstone, and fixed to one end of the axis of the chain-pump.
This last method is general throughout the empire. Every labourer is
in possession of such a portable machine; an implement to him not
less useful than a spade to an European peasant.
The making of those machines gives employment to a great number
of artificers."
Other and more simple means are used by the Chinese for the same
purpose. The use of the bucket, suspended between two men, is very
ancient, and is admirably suited to the end required. Each man holds
two strings, and standing upon a bank, fills the bucket by lowering it
into the pond; it is then raised by pulling simultaneously, and by a
sudden jerk with one hand, it is emptied of its contents into the rice
grounds or dike as may be intended.
CASE XVIII.. A.
CONTAINS a model of a Chinese war junk, elaborately carved in ivory.
This unique specimen affords an admirable illustration of an art, in which
the Chinese excel.
The word Junk is of eastern origin, now exclusively applied to the
largest vessels of the Chinese and Japanese. The Chinese junks are
.
Bimale
&

143
known by the high stem, split open half its length, and without a stern-
post, and by the lip-like bows, with a large eye painted or carved on each
side. The model from which a junk was first derived is said by the
Chinese to have been a monstrous fish; the fancied resemblance is kept
up in the eyes, the mouth, and teeth painted on the bow, a frisking tail
in the high stern, &c,, which, in merchantmen, not only bears the name
of the vessel, but is often decorated with paintings of flowers, a phoenix
standing on one leg, pictures of demi-gods; or with short sentences
indicative of the hap-hazard nature of seafaring occupations: as,
may favorable winds attend you;"
"with fair winds make profit;"
fair winds are a great happiness;" &c.
to the islands of the Archipelago are often navigated by Portuguese of
Macao; the Chinese themselves having no charts or instruments of
any value, excepting the compass and hour-glass.-The registered ton-
nage of the largest class which trade to the port of Canton does not
probably exceed five hundred tons.
The Chinese junks that go
372. Chair of state with footstool, elaborately carved and gilt, corres-
ponding with another on the opposite side.
The visitor's especial attention is directed to a pair of magnificent
lanterns suspended from the ceiling, immediately above the chairs.
These lanterns are of exquisite workmanship and beauty, and from their
expensive character in China, are seen only in the halls of the most
wealthy; it is believed these are the only pair of the same magnitude
and richness ever brought from China.
CASE XIX.
ORNITHOLOGY.
Pencilled Pheasant.
374. Phasianus Pictus.
375.
Polyplectron Hardwickii.. Diamond Pheasant.
376. Do. female.
377. Euplocomus Nycthemerus, Golden Pheasant.
378. Do.
female.
do.
144
379. Paradisea Sanguinea
380. Paradisea Apoda.
381. Do. Regia
Do.
Sanguine Bird of Paradise
Greater Bird of Paradise.
do.
King
382.
383. Cereopsis.
Apoda.
Greater
do.
CASE XX.
THIS case, with the one on the opposite side of the room correspond-
ing with it, is about fifteen feet high, and is covered with an exact fac-
simile of a Chinese roof, each corner of which terminates in a golden
dragon, from whose fiery mouth depends a bell, such as we see in draw-
ings and models of pagodas.
The dragon is considered as the emblem of imperial power and ma-
jesty, it is emblazoned on the dress of the emperor, surrounds all edicts
that appertain to himself, the title pages of books printed by his authority,
and more than any thing else, may be regarded as the national arms
of the Chinese empire:-and this fact will explain the frequency
with which we see the figure in their various works of art. It is
the badge or coat of arms affixed to the standard of the emperor.
This case contains, and is nearly filled by a superb lantern, used
only upon occasions of state. This lantern is about ten feet in
height, and four feet in diameter at the two extremities. The frame
is richly carved and gilt, and is covered with crimson and white silk,
adorned with the most costly and beautiful embroidery. The tassels
and bead work which depend from the bottom, and from a projecting
portion of each corner of the upper part, are in keeping with the rest.
There are no less than two hundred and fifty-eight crimson silk tassels,
pendent from various parts. In short, this national lantern is as magni-
ficent as carving, gilding, silks, embroidery, and bead-work can make it.
The bottom of the case is covered with numerous specimens of fans,
articles in universal use. Gentlemen as well as ladies carry fans, not
laying them aside even in cold weather.

ICILKEL
145
The variety and elegance displayed by the Chinese in their construc-
tion is well known; it is an indispensable article of dress with all classes,
and they are made of almost every material that can be easily em-
ployed. The form of this appendage to the dress of every Chinese,
differs according to the sex by whom it is used, those of the former
being made to fold up as with us, whilst those of the latter are invariably
flat and of fanciful shapes.
CHINESE CANNON.
In the recess at the back of the case XX, is placed a Chinese cannon,
taken by the British during the present war, at the capture of Chusan.
The literal translation of the inscription on the face, is as follows:
Cannon Architects,"
(Founders.)
KEA-KING.
14th year,
Kwei Ming Ching
Heavy"
(weight)
8th moon.
Meih Wan Tseu
placed.
Le Yew Shing
500 Catties.
Lang Wan Shing.
(i. e. cast.)
CASE XXI.
ORNITHOLOGY.
385. Phasianus Torquatus...... Ring-neck Pheasant.
386.
Do.
387. Aix Galericulata
do. female.
Chinese Teal or "Mandarin Duck."
This bird deserves especial notice, from the brilliancy of its plumage
and the singularity of its wings. Its disposition, too, is as remarkable
as its beauty. The female never mates a second time. An interesting
anecdote, illustrative of this fact, is related by Mr. Davis:-" From a
K
146
pair of these birds in Mr. Beale's aviary at Macao, the drake happened
one night to be stolen. The duck was perfectly inconsolable, like
Calypso after the departure of Ulysses. She retired into a corner,
neglected her food and person, refused all society, and rejected with
disdain the proffer of a second love. In a few days, the purloined duck
was recovered and brought back. The mutual demonstrations of joy
were excessive; and, what is more singular, the true husband, as if in-
formed by his partner of what had happened in his absence, pounced upon
the would-be lover, tore out his eyes, and injured him so much that he
soon after died of his wounds."
The word "Mandarin" applied to this bird, denotes, as it does in a
few other instances, its superiority over other ducks, and has no allusion
to appropriation by officers of government; the superiority consisting
in its gay coloring, and the remarkable feathers in its wings; at other
times, as in the mandarin orange, the superiority consists in its flavour.
388.
Oriolus Sinensis
Golden Thrush.
389. Francolinus longirostris .. Long-billed Partridge.
390. Pastor tristis .
391. Lanius
392. Cuculus Senagalensis
393. Alcedo veridis
Starling.
Greater Butcher Bird.
Senegal Cuckoo.
Pied Kingfisher.
394. Gallinula
•
Large Gallinule.
395.
Coturnix communis ..
Common Quail.
396. Anas fuligula .
Tufted Duck.
397. Python bivittatus. Chinese Boa Constrictor and a wild Cat.
398. Cryptonix cristatus
399.
Ditto
400. Gallus Bankiva.
401.
Ditto
402. Turnix Meiffren
CASE XXII.
Crowned Cryptonix.
Female.
Javanese Jungle Cock,
Javanese Jungle Hen.
White Spotted Turnix.
147
403. Pastor Cineraceus
404. Psittacus Bengalensis
405. Pastor Albicollis
406.
Merops...
407. Merops Orientalis....
408. Psittacus Alexandri
409. Fringilla Nisoria
410. Fringilla Javanica..
411.
Ditto
412. Fringilla Cruciger
413. Merops Minor
414. Pastor Sericea .
415. Psittacus
416. Fringilla Maia
417. Parra Sinensis
418.
419.
Anser Ludicus.
420. Pelicanus Carbo
•
·
White faced Pastor.
Blossom-headed Parrakeet.
White-headed Starling.
Honey Eater.
Eastern Bee Eater.
Ring Neck Parroquet.
Finch.
Java Sparrow.
Ditto female.
Finch.
Small Indian Bee Eater.
Silky Starling.
Green Parroquet.
Cuba Finch.
Jackana.
Grand Parrot.
White Fronted Goose.
Cormorant.
Javanese Manis.
421.
Manis Javanica...
422.
Ditto
423. Larus Kissa
424. Anas Clypeata
Ditto.
Kittiwake Gull.
Shoveler.
Birds are not arranged by the Chinese naturalists into different groups
under certain conspicuous examples as animals are, but are classified
according to their habits, into water, earth or fountain, forest, and hill
birds. The introduction to the order of birds in the Pún Tsaou exhibits
their ideas upon the habits of birds generally:
Le Shechan says,
what has two legs and feathers is called a bird." Sze'kwang says,
"the plumage of the 360 kinds of feathered beings (i. e. all birds)
harmonises with the four seasons, and their hues correspond to the five
quarters. Hill birds roost on cliffs, earth birds live on the ground;
forest birds sing at dawn, water birds cry at night. The beaks of land
birds are short, and their tails adorned; the bills of water birds are long,
and their tails abbreviated. Birds are produced by laying eggs from
under the wing, or by a change in the same class, (as when hawks become
K 2
148
pigeons ;) or by transformation from different orders (as when moles
become quails;) or lastly by changing into lifeless beings (as sparrows
turning into shells.) Truly, if the laws of beings are so various as this,
how diligent must the student be who wishes to know them ?"
CASES XXIII.—IV.
CONCHOLOGY.
In these cases are numerous specimens of shells from the China seas,
which are labelled.
CASE XXV.
SILVER WARE, ENAMEL, &c.
429 & 430. A pair of elegantly chased silver tankards to contain hot
wine.
These afford a good specimen of native skill in this particular art.
Wine is said to have been introduced in the time of Yu, (the Chinese
Noah) who, after partaking of the luxury, banished the maker, and
prohibited its use, remarking, that "in future ages, nations would be
ruined by it."
431. A basket beautifully wrought and enamelled, in silver wire, to
contain flowers.
432 & 433. A pair of pearl oyster-shells richly carved, on one of which
there is a bee, ingeniously wrought out of gold wire, a novel
and brilliant imitation of that useful insect.
434. A small antique porcelain vessel, a specimen of this art in its
earliest age.
435. Grotesque bronze "Lion-unicorn" on a carved stand, used as an
incense holder-an ancient specimen.
149
The figures given of this animal, by the Chinese, differ very much.
It appears to be a mere creature of imagination. One drawing of it
partly resembles the fabled griffon of the Greeks; a spinous fin upon
the back, a large horn upon the forehead, the claws and teeth of a lion,
with the skin of a tiger, are its usual outlines.
436. A small Buddha idol, on a stand.
437. Grotesque lion and whelps, in colored marble, on a stand.
438. An ancient "Cup of Alliance," used by the bride and bridegroom
at the "excellent ceremony" (of marriage) in mutually pledg-
ing each other in a cup of wine.
439 & 440. A pair of beautifully carved figures from the root of the
bamboo, and stands.
441.
442.
A beautiful specimen of sculpture of the lotus (Nymphæa ne-
lumbo.)
A snuff bottle in lacquered ware, a beautiful specimen from
Soo-chow.
443 & 444. A pair of very beautiful ornamental stands, with marble
tops, on which are two flower baskets ingeniously wrought in
silver wire.
445. Antique enamelled vessel to contain hot wine, at feasts, of which
the Chinese are remarkably fond.
446. Enamelled bottle shape flower vase.
447 to 449. Three ancient metallic idols of Buddha or Fŭh.
450 & 451. Two marble idols.
452. A very ancient metallic figure on a tortoise, used as an incense
holder.
453.
A superb set of ivory chess-men exquisitely carved, on a lacquer-
ed board, the ball at the bottom of each has in it several
concentric spheres.
454. Elegantly lacquered box to contain paper, &c.
455 & 456. Three lacquered boxes beautifully inlaid with mother-o'-pearl.
457. An ivory ball, containing seventeen concentric spheres each one
being carved with a different pattern.
These ivory balls have long excited the surprise and admiration of
Europeans, and even led to the supposition that some deception must be
150
J
exercised in joining the exterior balls after the others have been inserted.
In order to test this-they have been subjected to the action of boiling
vinegar, but without effect. They are in reality cut one within the other
by means of sharp crooked instruments, through the round holes with
which they are perforated. The average time consumed in carving each
ball is about one month.
CASE XXVI.
ARTICLES OF VERTÛ.
458. A gentleman's pocket mirror, the back of which is of ivory,
with beautifully carved figures.
459. Do., with back of sandal wood carved in a similar manner.
460. Richly carved ivory case, to contain a gentleman's snuff bottle.
461 & 462. Odoriferous beads covered with silk, usually suspended
at the neck of the outer coat or jacket of Chinese women when
fully dressed.
463. A pair of embroidered tobacco pouches.
464.
465.
466.
467.
Ornamental stand, with imitations of fruit in silver wire, beauti-
fully executed.
An ornamental stand, in which is an apparatus in silver, consisting
of a tongue-scraper, tooth-pick, and ear-pick: these are
generally appended to the girdle of the dress, attached by a
chain of the same metal.
Beads of odoriferous wood, from the seed vessel of a plant, some-
times used as buttons.
A bronze buffalo, used as an incense vessel.
468. Small ornamental stand, with porcelain vessel.
469. A pair of beautifully painted porcelain jars.
470 & 471. Ornamental stands, with specimens of carving in ivory,
of men, cattle, birds, &c.
472. Pair of chop-sticks and knife in a case of sandal wood.
151
473 to 475. Cups of pressed glass, in imitation of those cut out of valuable
stones.
These are used at entertainments for wine, which is always drank
warm. The wealthy Chinese use small golden cups, having the shape
of an antique vase, with two handles, some being square; and at dinner
they are kept constantly filled by attendants holding large silver vessels.
like coffee pots (see Case XXV. No. 445.) The Chinese mode of pledg-
ing is singular, but has, at the same time, some resemblance to our
own. The person who wishes to do this courtesy to one or more
guests, gives them notice by an attendant; then, taking the full cup
with both hands, he lifts it to the level of his mouth, and after making
a particular motion with his head, he drinks off the contents; he waits
until the other party has done the same, and finally repeats the first
nod of the head, holding the cup downward before him, to show that it
is quite empty. It is a compliment in China to tell a man that his
ability to drink wine is great.
476. Rosary, composed of beads, from the stones of the Pimela of
Louriero or Chinese Olive, carved in imitation of the Shih
På Lo Han or 18 disciples of Buddha.
477. A porcelain snuff bottle.
478. Ancient marble figure on stand.
479. Small metallic candlestick.
480. A beautiful white porcelain vessel on a stand.
481. Carved mother-o'-pearl ornament, attached to the neck of the
outer garment.
482. A signet or hand seal placed upon official documents, on the top of
which is a representation of a lion and whelp.
The national seal is called "Se," and is made of some precious stone;
bearing the words "the gem of the imperial pencil of ten thousand springs;"
others are made of gold, silver, or copper; some are square, and others
oblong, which varieties are intended to mark the difference of rank.
The box containing the official seal, is generally covered with yellow
cloth. Dr. Morrison says, the Chinese phrase Fung yin," i. e.,
"to shut up the seal," implies, to desist from the ordinary business
of the public courts, in the last month of the year; and "to open out the
tr
152
seal,” implies a re-commencement of public business, after ending the
new year's holidays, which continue from about the twentieth of the
twelfth moon, to the twentieth of the first moon.
483:
Glass-box for containing the red pigment used with seals.
484. Model of a mandarin's couch, called " Kang," which occasionally
answers for a bed; it is made of the wood " Muh wang," and
is richly carved.
66
In the north of China, during the cold weather, these couches are
warmed by fire underneath. They were introduced by the Tartars. In
the centre of the seat is placed a small table, Kang cho tsze," to
receive tea, and other refreshments, whilst two persons sit one on each
side of it; stools for the feet are placed in front.
485.
Metallic incense vessel.
486 to 488. Three ornamental stands, in which are variegated marbles,
covered with sculptured hieroglyphics, and which are held by
the Chinese in religious veneration.
489. Small ornamental stand, with porcelain vessel.
490. Copper cast of Buddha, worshipped by the religious sect in China,
on a stand of hard wood.
491. Beautiful specimen of variegated marble, with rude natural resem-
blances of birds and animals, in a richly-carved frame.
492. Specimen of painting on glass, with an astrological device, in richly
carved frame.
CASE XXVII.
SMALL ARTICLES OF FINE PORCELAIN.
Three tea-pots and sundry cups. The inside is of porcelain,
the outside of white copper.
These afford a good specimen of a singular application of this metal,
being formed in a very puzzling manner over a porcelain vessel of the
same shape, which appears as an interior lining. The handles and
spouts are of the stone called jade, to which the Chinese give the name
153
of yu. The outsides of these tea-pots are covered with sentences
expressive of the excellencies of good tea.
494.
Porcelain dish in form of a leaf with imitation fruit.
495. Porcelain snuff bottle, of great beauty, with stopper of red
cornelian, attached to which is a tortoise-shell spoon.
496. Perforated porcelain vessel, for sweet-scented flowers.
497. Brown porcelain tea-pot of singular form.
498. Another ditto, with maxims.
499. Very curious porcelain box, in form of a crab, with moveable eyes
and feet.
500. Singular and ancient tea-pot, having no lid. The tea is put in
at the bottom, and the orifice is then stopped, the object of
which is to prevent the escape of the aroma of the tea.
501. Very small tea-pot of brown ware and porcelain cup of very
small dimensions.
These are not toys, as they are sometimes supposed to be; but are
used in making the finest and most expensive kinds of tea; teas in
China being sold at prices varying from a few cents to several dollars
per catty. The most costly kinds are never exported, as they would
not bear the exposures of a distant voyage. A small canister of pe-
culiarly fine tea accompanies the above.
*
502. Vessel to contain tsew hing, hot wine, at dinners.
503. Perforated porcelain vessel, resembling an orange.
504. Very ancient tea-pot, but similar to the more modern, except in
the handle; the outer surface being cracked in the burning.
505 & 506. Two porcelain bowls of great beauty.
507. A small portable furnace and kettle, made of a species of fire
clay.
508. A vessel of clay in common use for the purpose of cooking rice.
509. A figured tile, used for paving court-yards.
510. A kettle made of clay, for boiling water. This vessel is in gene-
ral use in China, and is of the least expensive kind, the retail
price is about one farthing each.
* A catty is one pound and one-third.
154
3
Earthenware vessels for containing liquids are extensively used among
the Chinese; some of them are very capacious, and others display the
taste of the artist. Stone ware, or coarse earthen jars, are frequently
seen as large as hogsheads; earthen cooking utensils are there employed,
which elsewhere are made of iron or wood.
CASE XXVIII.
511. Lady's silk embroidered tobacco pouch.
512.
Gentleman's do. do.
513. Ornamental stand, with grotesque sculptured human figure.
514. Mariner's compass called by the Chinese,
515.
to the south.”
Gentlemen's embroidered pockets.
The needle pointing
516 & 517. Buttons worn on mandarins' caps to denote their rank.
518. Ancient Chinese coins of different reigns, also the coins of the
Ta-Tsing, or present Tartar dynasty.
Coinage, in the strictest sense of the word, is hardly applicable to the
Chinese mode of working the precious metals. The inscriptions on the
back of these copper pieces (tsëen) are in the Manchow character,
which is unintelligible to most of the Chinese. The name of the dynasty
is placed on the left hand, and that of the reigning monarch on the right
of the square hole. The value of these cash as they are called by
foreigners, has fallen much within a few years, having formerly approxi-
mated nearly to the standard. The amount of pure copper contained
in them varies almost as much as their value. Tutenague is the principal
alloy contained in it.
519. Pair of washed metallic rings, put on the arms of females when
young, and never taken off; also, a washed metallic pin for
the hair.
520. Pair of spectacles of peculiar construction.
521. Model of a couch, the panels and seat of which are of marble.
155
522. Rings of the jade stone, as 519.
523. Do. hair pins.
524. Ladies' ear-rings of coloured glass.
525. Pair of spectacles with tortoise-shell frame and embroidered case.
526. Swan-pan or calculating board.
527. Ornamental stand, with marble top, on which is a plate of wax
fruit, and several coloured glass snuff bottles.
528. Specimen of beautifully embossed lacquered ware from Soochow,
in which are a pair of ear-rings.
529. Stand with grotesque figure, and antique copper vessel in form
of a duck, used to contain water for diluting the China ink.
Pallet and cover, for mixing India ink.
530.
531. Lady's work-basket, ingeniously wrought from bamboo.
532. Stone medallions, with hieroglyphics inscribed on them, used as
amulets or charms.
The written spells which the Chinese sometimes use, consist of mystical
compounds of various characters, or words, in which astrology is ge-
nerally introduced. Some of these spells are kept about the person,
others are pasted on the walls of rooms.
Occasionally," observes Mr. Morrison, "they are used as cures for
sick persons, being either written on leaves which are then infused in some
liquid, or inscribed on paper, burned, and the ashes thrown into drink,
which the patient was to swallow."
A common Chinese talisman is a silver plate, on which is inscribed the
characters Chang ming, foo kwei, "long life, riches, and honors," this
is presented to a child a month old, and is worn suspended from the
neck; kindred and friends subscribe to its purchase; it is called Yin
pae, a silver medal.”
Many of the Chinese believe in fatalism; while ghosts, spells, charms,
omens, talismans, and divination, are quite common among them, besides
many other branches of the occult sciences are practised, as geomancy,
chiromancy, fortune-telling, &c., by persons who exercise great influence
over their credulous countrymen.
533. Pen-holder, made of the bark of a tree.
534 & 535. Rosaries of colored beads.
1
156
536. Mandarin's girdle and clasp.
537. Porcelain plate and wax fruit.
538. Winnowing machine, used in sifting tea, having two spouts, to
ascertain the proportion of dust, called “fung-kwei,” or
"wind
devil."
539 & 540. Gentleman's girdle. The ends are very ingeniously wrought
in braid, representing a basket of flowers.
541. A feather fan of the Chinese goose.
542. A do. of the argus pheasant.
CASE XXIX.
SMALL ARTICLES OF FINE PORCELAIN.
543. Beautifully enamelled vessel, (on copper,) to hold flowers.
544 & 545. Porcelain rice dishes.
546 & 547. A pair of rich porcelain vases, with figures inlaid with gold.
548. Very ancient porcelain vessel, to hold soy made from the Dolichos
Soja. There are large manufactories of soy at Honan.
Curious small porcelain tea-pot.
549.
550 & 551. Two finely painted porcelain tea-cups and covers, with
written sentences on each. These are of a superior kind, and
are designated" egg-shell porcelain.”
552. Porcelain vessel of beautiful texture, for holding rice or soup.
553. Enamelled tea-cup, cover and stand; curious, but rarely used.
554. Beautifully painted porcelain pencil-holder, on carved stand.
555. Eight richly painted porcelain cups forming a set.
556 & 557. A pair of white porcelain jars, on which are paintings of
some of the highest mandarins in their state robes.
558. Small porcelain vessel for liquors.
559 to 561. Three large dishes, being beautiful specimens of enamel
on copper. These are used at marriage entertainments of the
wealthy.
562 & 563. Two large China ware tea-buckets, used by labourers, &c.
while engaged at their work.
157
CASE XXX.
SILK MANUFACTURES.
THE different specimens of silk and other manufactures exhibited
in this case, and also in No. 31, are made expressly for native use, the
style and quality being peculiarly their own, and are not exported as
merchandise.
564.
565.
Coloured figured crapes, for spring and autumn wear.
Specimens of coloured satins, made near Canton.
566. Figured satin, used for lining, &c.
567. Reels of raw silk.
568. Light coloured silks, for summer wear.
569. Beautiful specimen of silk manufacture-a piece of coloured satin,
having two faces, the one crimson, and the other green.
570. Coloured silks, for linings.
571. Figured silk, for winter wear.
572. Figured silk, for edgings of garments.
573. Damask silk, for winter wear.
574. Figured summer silks.
575. Coloured
do.
do.
CASE XXXI.
SILK AND COTTON MANUFACTURES.
576. Specimens of silks, used principally for linings of winter dresses,
and sometimes forming part of the summer costume of the
wealthy.
577. Specimens of grass-cloth, made of a species of hemp, much used
in China; the coarser kind for the poorer orders, the finer for
the rich. This is a cooler article than the French cambric.
578. Cotton check, in extensive use in China, which, it will be seen,
bears a strong resemblance to our own manufacture.
158
579. Specimens of linen and cotton goods, used for bed covers.
580. Crimson cotton for lining.
581.
Black silk velvet, used for facing winter felt caps.
582 & 583. Silks as 576.
584. Dyed grass-cloths.
585.
Common brown cotton, resembling American manufacture-
about sixteen inches wide, and costs about two-pence per
yard.
586. Cotton musquito netting.
587. Coarsest kind of grass-cloth, used by the poorest classes, and
sometimes by the rich for mourning.
588. Striped baglapoore, used for gentlemen's summer dresses in
China.
589. Dyed cottons for linings.
590. Damasked striped silk, for edges of gentlemen's dresses.
590A. Silk wadding, each sheet being the produce of one cocoon.
CASE XXXII.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.
591. Chinese flute, called seaou.
592. Guitar, called san-hëen, or three-stringed guitar.
This instrument is made of a peculiar wood brought from Siam. The
drum-shaped cylindrical body is covered with the skin of the tan snake.
The clouded brown and yellow skin of this reptile is the medium of
dulcet sounds in China, and it is said its liver is held in high estima-
tion by the native druggists.
593. A kind of dulcimer, called heen-kin, strongly resembling the
harmonicon, and furnished by brass strings, which are struck
by the two slips of bamboo. It is the rudiment of the piano-
forte; and when played by a master hand, it yields a very gay
and lively combination of harmonious sounds.
159
594. Guitar of ebony; the ball is covered with part of the skin
the tan snake, the name in Chinese is woo-pa.
595. A wind instrument, called săng.
The tones emitted by this instrument are very similar to the music
of the Scotch bagpipes.
It appears to be a species of organ of primitive construction, and is
used in the religious rites performed in honor of Confucius.
596. Guitar, called yue-kin, or “moon-lyre," in allusion to its circular
form.
597. Chinese clarionet, called Heang-teih.
This instrument is a great favorite with the Chinese, who are so
charmed with a loud and sonorous din, that it is the principal accom-
paniment on all occasions, either of joy or sorrow, of marriage enter-
tainments or funeral processions. The bell of this instrument is of
copper, as also the mouth-piece, by which the effect produced is increased
to a deafening sound.
598. Musical cups, a part of every Chinese band of music.
599. Musical instrument, cut out of a solid block and hollow, giving a
peculiar sound when beaten with a stick. It is struck to
mark the intervals of the religious services in temples, &c.,
and to beat time in music.
600. Violin denominated ye-yin.
601. Guitar, called pe-pa, an instrument in very common use.
602. A species of harp, called chung.
There is also a similar instrument, called "the scholar's lute." It
was played upon by Confucius and the sages of antiquity, and for this
reason, as well for its peculiar beauty, is held sacred by men of letters.
It has seven strings, and is made of the woo-tung wood, or Dryandria
condifolia.
603. Small gong, called lo-tseih.
604.
Plates of hard wood on which time is beaten.
They are also used by beggars to produce a loud noise at shop
doors, and thus compel the inmates to bestow a small sum of money
on them in charity. The Chinese name is cha-pan.
605 & 606. Brass trumpets.
160
607. Trumpets.
608. A framework of metallic plates, each producing a different sound
and struck with the small bamboo sticks.
609. Small cymbals.
610. Musical pipe, or clarionet, as described in 597.
611.
Brass horns that draw out as a telescope.
These are made of thin sheet brass, and are constructed upon the
same principle as our trombone.
612. Kind of drum, called hwuy-koo.
The Chinese do not employ catgut in stringing their instruments, but
substitute silk and wire. Sounding-boards are not used. According to
Mr. Huttner, one of the attachés of Lord Macartney's embassy, the gamut
of the Chinese is very imperfect. They have no knowledge of semi-
tones, counterpoint, or parts in music. Harmonies are never attempted.
Whatever the number of performers, there is always one melody.
In the manufacture of musical instruments, they make use of a wood
called woo-tung. This tree is very remarkable. It is said to be so ex-
ceedingly regular in casting its leaves, that the natural fall of one is a
certain indication of autumn.
CASE XXXIII.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS, &c.
The two upper sections of this case contain many mineralogical
specimens, which are labelled.
613. Chinese Gong, a musical instrument used in temples, and before
the mandarins, and at private theatrical entertainments, &c.
&c., called “Tung-lo." The highly sonorous nature of this
instrument is attributed to a large proportion of tin in com-
bination with copper.
614. Another gong, smaller than the above, but of louder sound.
615. Cymbals, called seaou-pò.

:
TGILKS.
DZLU
161
616. A kind of kettle drum resting upon three legs.
The frame is of wood, hollowed and covered with pig's hide. It is
beaten with successive strokes, and produces to the ear of an European
a very discordant note.
617. Musical instrument used in temples, having the sound of a bell.
CASE XXXIV.
JOINER'S TOOLS, &c.
618. Specimens of wrought iron nails, spikes, &c.
619. Three padlocks of curious construction.
620.
A carpenter's marking line, called "Mih-tow-sëen," in the use
of which a black line is made instead of white, as with us.
621. A complete set of tools for working in ivory.
622. Small hand saw, in the use of which a contrary motion is made
to our own, the teeth being reversed the saw is drawn to-
wards the workman, and is always set at an angle from the
back.
The compasses in use among the Chinese are without legs; the
instrument consists of a straight stick, having a pin in each end; one of
which serves as a pivot, while the other, set at any given distance,
describes the circle.
In the middle and lower sections of this case is a complete set of car-
penter's and joiner's tools, from the rough jack-plane to the smallest tools
for the execution of the finest carving. In China the building of a house
and the beautiful embellishments are both executed by the same work-
man.
CASES XXXV & XXXVI.
NATURAL HISTORY.
THESE cases contain numerous specimens in natural history; ser-
pents, lizards, toads, and fishes, some of which are exceedingly small.
L
ร
162
CASES XXXVII & XXXVIII.
NATURAL HISTORY.
THESE cases also contain numerous specimens in natural history
from the Chinese waters.
CASE XXXIX.
CUTLERY, CASTINGS, &C.
623. Implements used in splitting wood.
624. Cleavers used by butchers.
625 & 626. Tailor's scissors the blades of which are hollowed on the
inside.
627. A set of caponizing instruments.
628.
Portable anvil carried by itinerant blacksmiths.
629. Sickles for rice, in which are teeth like a saw.
630. Knives for cutting leather.
631.
Iron skewers for stringing fish.
632 & 634. Meat knives.
633. Reaping hook.
635. A wood chopper.
636.
Sickles for rice.
637 & 638. Wire baskets to which are attached handles. These are
used to contain live charcoal to dry any particular article.
639 & 640. Large fish knives.
641. Steel rat trap, similar to the European.
642. Pestle and mortar.
643. Bricklayer's trowel.
644. An iron shoe attached to hoes.
645. Cast iron vessels, very thin, for cooking rice, and frying meat, &c.
646. Vessel of cast iron, for various uses.
647.
Rat trap of common but rude construction.
648.
Stone-cutter's hammer.
163
CASE XL.
CHINESE BOOKS, &c.
649. Specimens of Chinese books, with the titles on the ends, showing
the mode of binding with the envelope.
650. Printing block of wood, resembling in its use our stereotype
plates.
The present mode of printing in China, by means of carved wooden
plates or blocks, was invented in the early part of the tenth century.
The Sung family obtained the supremacy about forty years after; and
the (Sung tae,) style of the Sung dynasty, was introduced as a more
elegant form of printing than any of the others under the dynasty, whose
name it bears. Since that time, it is not known that any material
alteration has taken place in its form.
The Chinese have no presses similar to our own.
The mode of printing is executed in the following manner; -The
printer holds in his hand what may be termed a double brush, having
one handle, that below his hand is charged with ink, with which he
supplies the face of the engraved characters on the block before
him; the paper, which is very thin, and somewhat resembles what
is termed by us silver paper, is next placed on the block, and the
dry brush is run over the surface, thereby completing the impression.
The operation is very quick, and from 2,000 to 3,000 may be taken off
in a day by a single workman. The paper being so thin and
transparent, it is printed on one side only, and each printed sheet,
consisting of two pages, is folded back at a dividing line, given in the
printing, bringing the unprinted or blank pages together. The fold is
therefore on the outer edge of the volume, contrary to our mode.
Under the Sung dynasty referred to above, moveable characters made
of clay, baked hard, were used, but the printing by no means equalled
the present mode.
Etching, and engraving on steel, are arts which are scarcely known
in China, and have not been employed at all in illustrating books.
Stones are used for seals, but lithography is entirely unknown.
L 2
164
651. Very small book, used as an amulet. Another of the same kind
is exhibited below, open.
Books of this kind are sometimes smuggled by the students at their
examination, as likely to escape detection from their small size, and are
secreted in the sleeve of their garment.
652. Buddhist book, filled with plates, representing their future
punishments, (described in page 32.)
Drawings representing their supposed punishments are frequently seen
and are erroneously supposed in this and other countries, to represent
those actually inflicted upon criminals by the Chinese laws.
653. Book of manuscripts.
On the right hand is the Kang Chih Fd, or book of plates illustrating
agriculture and weaving, containing forty-six leaves, and executed in the
best style of Chinese printing, having the imperial dragon surrounding
each page of letter press indicating its origin to be no less than royalty.
This is the work of the emperor Yen-te, otherwise called Shin-nung,
the divine husbandman, and father of medicine," who caused this book
to be printed and circulated far and near, with the view of benefitting
his people.
There are twenty-three plates illustrating the different operations of
agriculture, and the same number exhibiting the various manipulations
in raising silk worms and weaving cloth. The descriptions are in poetry,
and for the must part, far beyond the scholarship of those for whom they
were designed. The subjects of the twenty-three plates on agriculture
are as follows, beginning with the first :-soaking the grain in water,
previous to sowing it; ploughing the rice-grounds; harrowing them, and
reducing the soil to mud; harrowing a second time, with a harrow-
rake; rolling the fields, with a toothed roller; sowing the grain; observ-
ing the shoots, just above the ground; manuring them with liquid
manure; pulling up the shoots for transplanting; transplanting the
shoots; thinning and weeding the growing grain for the first time; a
second weeding and thinning; a third weeding; irrigating the growing
grain; reaping the ripe grain; carrying the sheaves to the thrashing
floor; thrashing the grain with flails; hulling the paddy in mortars;
sifting the grain; winnowing it in fans; grinding it in a wooden mortar,
165
which takes off the skin of the kernel; storing it in granaries; and
lastly, returning thanks to the agricultural gods for the harvest.
The subjects of the remaining plates are on rearing the silk worm, and
weaving, as follows: washing the eggs of the worms; spreading them
out on trays in racks; hatching the eggs; bringing leaves to feed the
worms; cleaning the trays after the worms have eaten; removing the
trays to different situations; picking mulberry leaves; covering the trays
with branches for the worms to roll their cocoons; smoking the trays
over a fire; weighing the cocoons; assorting the cocoons; sealing
them in jars for about ten days, until the moth is hatched; reeling off
the cocoons; the moths laying eggs; returning thanks to the gods for
the crop of silk, and offering a part; reeling off the spools of single floss
to form threads; weaving plain cloth; reeling and spinning thread;
making the warp; dyeing the thread; weaving figured cloth, cutting
cloth for garments; and lastly, making garments. The plates are
among the best that Chinese art has produced, the perspective being
tolerably good, and the filling up of the design often exhibiting many
little sketches of rural life; and, were not the price of the work so high
as to place it beyond the reach of common laborers, it might be useful
to publish it for them.
654 & 655. Le Ke," or Book of Rites and ceremonies.
This work is highly valued by the Chinese, and is placed among the
Five Classics. It is appealed to by them as an infallible standard in all
matters relating to civil and religious rites, etiquette, &c.
In the illustrations of rites it is said, "never be disrespectful, but grave
and considerate, and let your words be calm and determined, then you
"will tranquillize the people!"
The above sentence forms the commencement of the first chapter of
the book of rites; and though brief, it presents a fair sample of the
style of the work, which is for the most part laconic and didactic.
656. Imperial temple dictionary.
657. Book of ancient seal characters.
658. Representations of the religious ceremonies of the Buddhists.
659. Book of architectural drawings, with silk margin, and wooden
covers.
166
CASE XLI.
FRUITS, TEAS, &c. &c.
I. A specimen of a dwarf tree, for which the Chinese are so ce-
lebrated.
The practice of dwarfing forest trees is common among the Chinese,
and is considered as a test of the gardener's skill; bamboos, cypresses
orange, and a species of elm tree are thus treated; and when well
stunted and distorted, these victims of fashion often bear extravagant
prices. The following is the mode as practised by the Chinese. The
thick branch of a fruit tree is deprived of a ring of bark, and the place
covered round with a lump of rich loam. This is kept moist, and when
the radicles have pushed into the loam, the whole is taken off and placed
in a shallow pot. The branches most loaded with blossoms are selected,
and the abscission taking place when the fruit is nearly ripe, they are in
that state sold in flower pots. When the dwarfing process is intended
to be in imitation of old forest trees, the branch which has pushed
radicles into the surrounded loam is separated from the tree, and planted
in a shallow earthenware flower-pot, of an oblong shape. The pot is
then filled with small lumps of alluvial clay, sufficient to supply a scanty
nourishment to the plant, and water is added in a regulated quantity.
The branches are repressed by cutting and burning, and bent into shapes
resembling those of an old forest tree in miniature. Roughness is
produced in the bark by smearing it with sweet substances that attract
ants; and the plant in time acquires the desired smallness of leaf, and
general stunted appearance. The elm is most frequently used for this
purpose: nor do the dwarfs require any further attention, when once
fashioned, than to have the young shoots kept down by clipping.
Trees of this description live to a considerable age, this specimen was
brought from China while in full health, having been kept in the same
flower pot upwards of fifty years.
II. Another tree of the same description, showing the manner in which
the root is twisted, so as to afford as little nourishment to the tree as
possible, in order to obtain the required smallness of leaf.
167
III. Bird's nest of a species of swallow peculiar to the Indian Islands,
Hirundo esculenta, well known as an important article of the commerce
of the Chinese, arising from their indulgence in this very whimsical luxury.
This specimen is in its natural state, as taken from the rocks.
In this
IV. A part of the birds nest, as above, in an edible state.
state it is made into soup, and sold at a price that would startle some of
our own countrymen that are addicted to gastronomic pleasures.
The natural history of the swallow from which these nests are taken
is not very accurately understood.
The esculent nest here seen is always the produce of the swallow which
builds in the caves of rocks, at a distance from the habitation of man.
The caves where these nests are found are frequently, but not always, on
the sea side. In Java, very productive caves are found at least fifty
miles from the sea. The quality, and consequently the price of the nests
mainly depend upon the time they are taken from the caves. The finest
kind being those that are taken from deep damp caves, and such as are
procured before the birds have laid their eggs. The coarsest are those
obtained after the young are fledged.
The most remarkable and productive caves in Java, are those of
Karang-bolang, in the province of Baglen, on the south coast of the
island. Here the caves are only to be approached by a perpendicular
descent of many hundred feet, by ladders of bamboo and rattan, over a
sea rolling violently against the rocks. When the mouth of the cave is
attained, the perilous office of taking the nests must often be performed by
torch light, by penetrating into recesses of the rock, where the slightest
slip, would be instantly fatal to the adventurers, who see nothing
below them but the turbulent surf dashing among the chasms of the
rock.
V. Chinese fruit called Lé-ché (Dimo carpus,) from the province of
Fokien. Of this fruit there are many varieties, arising chiefly from
situation, and the care bestowed on its cultivation. It is not found in
the northern provinces, but has been introduced into the Archipelago
from China.
VI and VII. Two other varieties of Lé-ché.
VIII. Longans, or Lung yen (Dragon's eye) so called from its resem-
168
blance to the eye-ball, when divested of its shell. This is another variety
of the above fruit.
IX. Chinese Olive (Cannarium). This fruit has been so called, merely
from the color and shape somewhat resembling that from the Levant ;
it is a very ordinary fruit, and is usually pickled.
A considerable portion of the food of the Chinese consists of fruits,
which is, at least in the southern parts of the empire, both cheap and
abundant. Fruit-stalls line the sides of the streets, and baskets full,
fill the door-ways of shops. The variety is not so great as in western
countries, where exotic fruits are added to the indigenous, nor is the
flavor of Chinese fruits as a whole, equal to that of other lands where
skill and science have combined to improve the production of nature.
The Chinese have no general name for the orange, each variety (of
which there are several) bearing a different name.
This fruit is very
abundant in the winter season, and species of the genus, especially the
citron and kin keuh, are raised in pots as ornamental shrubs.
The peach is cultivated in China, though it is not usually allowed to
attain its full maturity on the tree. This practice of picking fruits,
before they are fully ripe, is very common in China, and is often the chief
reason of their insipidity. The peach tree is a great favorite with the
Chinese, and its budding leaves, opening flowers, and general beauty,
furnish abundant metaphors to their poets. The pears of China often
grow to a large size, but their flavor as well as that of the apple, is far
inferior to the same fruits in England and elsewhere.
The quince and the papaw are both called "tree melon" the former
bears another name, “the fruit of ten thousand ages," given to it from its
unwithering nature.
X. Chinese gas-light toys. These are a preparation of sandal wood, &c.
one end being ignited, the gas is forced out through an aperture in the
opposite direction.
XI. Chinese Tobacco, in very general use among all classes, and is
smoked by ladies as well as gentlemen. Cigars are made of the tobacco
leaf rolled in paper and so used, but in making cigars for foreigners
the leaf forms the wrapper as with us.
XII. Anomia Placenta,--or pearl shell, used by the Chinese as a sub-
stitute for glass in windows (see No. 1341).
169
XIII. Very superior isinglass used by the Chinese in soups and made
dishes, similar to our vermicelli.
XIV. Another kind but inferior in quality.
XV. A packet of pounded rice in an envelope of parchment; imported
into China from Japan, and used by the Chinese medicinally.
XVI. Specimen of fine black tea, locally called "wheat-sheaves" from
its form being similar to a sheaf of wheat.
The parcels of tea in this section of the case are of a very fine quality
and such as are never exported as merchandise, but are sent as presents
by the Chinese merchants to their friends.
XVII. Specimen of the " Tea brick." According to Timkowski,
the usual medium of exchange in Tartary is Tea, made up into the shape
of bricks, as here seen; it is pressed into flat cakes while green, from
which it takes its name.
XVIII. Part of a similar brick as already described, though of a
different quality.
XIX. Specimen of fine black teas (as in XVI.) locally termed "tea
faggots" the quality is very fine and is altogether used as expressed above.
XX. A ball of black tea.
XXI. Another variety of black tea packed in small globular parcels
and esteemed for its quality.
XXII. Another tea brick as before described.
XXIII. A different variety of black tea, packed in a singular form
and enveloped in a dried leaf.
XXIV. Specimen of Chinese writing paper, with Chinese or "Indian"
ink, a small slab and writing pencil.
The materials used in the manufacture of paper in China are various.
The coarse yellow paper used for wrapping parcels, is made from rice
straw. The finer kinds are composed of the inner bark of a species of
morus, as well as of silk and cotton, but generally of bamboo, as in the
specimen here exhibited. The sheets are usually three feet and a half in
length, and two in breadth.
The mode of making the last description is as follows:
The bamboo stalks are cut near the ground and then sorted into parcels
according to their age, and tied up in small bundles. The younger the
170
bamboo, the better is the quality of the paper which is made from it.
The bundles are thrown into a reservoir of mud and water, and buried in
the ooze for about a fortnight to soften them. They are then taken out,
and cut into pieces of a proper length, and put into mortars with a little
water, to be pounded to a pulp with large wooden pestles. This semi-
fluid mass, after being cleansed of the coarsest parts, is transferred to a
large tub of water, and additions of the substance are made until the
whole becomes of a sufficient consistence to form paper. A workman
then takes up a sheet with a mould or frame of the proper dimensions,
which is constructed of bamboo in small strips, made smooth and round
like wire. The pulp is continually agitated by other hands, while one is
continually taking up the sheets, which are then laid upon smooth tables
to dry. According to others, the paper is dried by placing the newly
made sheets upon a heated wall, and rubbing them with brushes until
dry. This paper so made is unfit for writing on with liquid ink, and is
of a yellowish color. The Chinese size it by dipping the sheets in a
solution of fish glue and alum, either during or after the first process of
making it. The fine paper used for letters after sizing, is polished by
rubbing it with smooth stones.
The writing apparatus of a Chinese scholar, consists of a square or
cake of ink, a small black slab of schistus or slate, polished smooth, with
a slight cavity at one end to hold water, a finely pointed hair pencil, and
a supply of paper. These four articles, the ink, the slab, the pencil, and
the paper, are called "the four precious implements;" a phrase indicative
of their high respect for letters.
Such is the reverence paid by the Chinese to letters and literary pur-
suits, that they will not tread upon written or printed paper.
XXV. A card of invitation to an entertainment given by Houqua, on
attaining his sixtieth year, addressed to the owner of this Collection.
The preparations for this banquet were of the most extensive character,
and the sumptuous entertainment lasted two weeks. The expense
incurred upon this occasion was nearly 200,000 dollars, or £40,000
sterling.
The literal translation is as follows:-" On the seventeenth day, the
171
<<
spring tea waits for the splendour of your presence. (I) most respect-
fully announce the felicitous season, and worshipfully invite you at six
o'clock."
XXVI. A Chinese congratulatory letter and envelope.
The Chinese attach great importance to the graphic beauty of their
written character,—and take unwearied pains to write their numerous
communications in a clear, uniform, proportionate, and elegant manner.
Of two points to be regarded, correctness and elegance, the former only
is absolutely required of candidates at the literary examinations; but it
adds greatly to the consideration in which they are held, if to this quality
they add neatness and freedom. A stiffly written character, however
correct may be the proportion of its parts, is little less displeasing to the
eye of a Chinese than one written carelessly and out of proportion.
The letters of the Chinese are generally written on ornamented paper,
called by them "flowered leaves," as in the one under review. The
language of the following congratulatory epistle, on the attainment of
advanced age, appears as flowery in its style as the leaves on which it is
written.-
“ The Eastern Viceroy blesses the Western Commander in a letter of
congratulation on his advanced age.”
"The fragrant amber's resplendent beauties crowded together, and
"the chrysanthemum's diffusiveness, are emblems of your long life."
"Your excellency's happiness increases with the constancy of the
revolving seasons, and demands the noblest congratulations.”
"I, with inspired ardour, proclaim your praises to be equal to those
"of the full orbed moon in her descending progress."
"Reverentially reverting to auspicious periods;-may the minister
“born under the favor of the felicitous stag† preserve his divine
"joys may the lucky day; the glittering two-edged swords; the
The Amber tree is said to live 1000 years, and is therefore considered by the
Chinese to be an emblem of long life.
+ A fabulous animal which appears in the world to prognosticate the birth of a
sage.-There was one, it is said, prior to the birth of Confucius.
The period when admitted to office, alluding to the official signet given by the
Emperor.
The sword of the literati.
military has but a single edge.
Civilians wear a two edged sword. The sword of the
{
172
splendid variety of fragrant flowers*; and the stork's† devices added
'to the reeds and stones (used in divination) be favorable, and songs
sung in concert with the music of gongs and flutes."
'May the felicitous stars shine brightly in the western border when
“there are flowers, bells, offerings and minuet dancings at the birth-days
"of the aged."
May the nectar of Heaven (genial dews) remotely extend itself to
"the South pole; when commendations in full cups are drank and the
"exhalations of the dews from the plants diffuse their fragrance."
Elegant renovation casts honor on the vigor of your venerable years.
Though indistinctly listening to the songs of the silk-gatherers, and of
"the rustic, you diffuse the rosy breath of spring's terraces §; looking
up for the breeze's blessing; and for the joys of the feathered tribe."
How can I with sufficient reverence present this poor letter for your
"acceptance?"—
<c
"Offering my hearty congratulations, and sincerely enquiring after
"your highnesses repose, I humbly consider your honor a reflecting
"mirror to display those superior powers which the highest praise vainly
attempts to reach."
XXVII. Chinese drugs, consisting chiefly of herbs and other simples,
together with a native physician's prescription.
Medical science among the Chinese is in a very different state from
that to which it has been advanced by modern practitioners in the West.
It is now where it was centuries ago: many diseases are regarded as in-
curable by them, for which modern improvement has devised sure and
speedy remedies. It would probably be found, were the subject suffici-
ently examined, that the Chinese, as a nation, enjoy as good a degree of
health, and on an average attain to as great an age, as any other people.
* Probably an allusion to the color of the buttons worn on the cap, by which the
different ranks are distinguished.
+ Which the genii are said to ride upon, as an emblem of felicity.
Old age-alluding to planetshaving passed the meridian.
§ Referring to the culture of lands, on slopes and eminences, from which palmy
breezes arise. -"Rosy breath" is a literal translation from the Chinese, and will
remind the reader of the English poct's " rosy breath of morn."
173
Preventive medicine, or hygiene, is a part of the benevolent art to which
the Chinese pay great, but evidently not too much, attention; they say
truly, "prevention is better than cure." Diseases of the skin are very
numerous among the Chinese. Their mode of dressing, and the little
use made of the bath, are two of the principal reasons for their frequency.
As we have elsewhere remarked, the shirt is unknown to the Chinese;
and their under dress, of whatever description it may be, is seldom
changed. In their ancient literature, mention is made of the bathing-
tub, on which the sages had their maxims engraved; but public baths seem
never to have existed in China, and private ones are not common, nor
much frequented.
Vaccination appears to have been entirely unknown to the Chinese,
until introduced in 1805, by the late Alexander Pearson, Esq. surgeon to
the East India Company's Factory, who both vaccinated numbers
himself, and wrote a small tract in explanation of the theory and art;
it was translated into Chinese by Sir George Staunton. From that
time to the present, an efficient vaccine establishment has been main-
tained at Canton, first under the care of Doctor Pearson, and subse-
quently under a native gentleman, He-qua, who was initiated and well
instructed in the business by the founder of the institution. From Canton
the practice has spread into several, if not most, of the provinces of the
empire, and the tract has also been widely circulated, the Chinese
publishers carefully suppressing its foreign origin.
The shop of an apothecary in Canton is said to contain usually not
less than 300 medicines; yet the most intelligent Chinese affirm that
40 or 50 only are absolutely necessary in medical practice. The low state
of the art may partly be explained by the small consideration in which it
is held, and by there being no public schools of medicine, or any way of
acquiring their limited knowledge, except by engaging with some person
already in practice. Stag's horns are a prominent figure among the
embellishments of a druggist's shop in China; bundles of them are
suspended from the ceiling, or disposed in different parts of the
office; and it is not common to see a shop, however scanty the as-
sortment of wares, which cannot exhibit this much valued remedy.
It has the credit of being a cure for pulmonary affection. No license is
174
required for engaging in the practice of medicine in China; but the
physician must beware lest his medicines fail to have the desired effect.
The following extract from the Penal Code will show the summary
manner in which empirics are dealt with.
(6
r
"Whenever an unskilful practitioner, in administering medicines, or
using the puncturing needle, proceeds contrary to the established
forms, and thereby causes the death of a patient, the magistrate
"shall call in other practitioners to examine the medicine or the wound,
"and if it appears that the injury done was unintentional, the practitioner
"shall then be treated according to the statute for accidental homicides,
"and shall not be allowed any longer to practice medicine. But if
designedly he departs from the established forms, and deceives in his
attempts to cure the malady, in order to obtain property, then ac-
cording to its amount he shall be treated as a thief; and if death
shall ensue from his mal-practice, then for having thus used medicine
"with intent to kill, he shall be beheaded."
The remuneration to the physician varies according to the standing and
reputed skill of the practitioner, and is generally by contract, regulated
by the means of the party, for the entire cure of the malady. When a
cure is not effected, no payment is required. In dangerous cases the
fee is sometimes very large.
The
While anatomy is admitted by western physicians to be the basis of
medical science, it is by the Chinese, as a distinct science, a separate
branch of the healing art, almost wholly unknown and neglected.
single fact that dissection is seldom if ever attempted in China is evi-
dence enough to prove that there cannot be any very accurate knowledge
of the human frame and its functions. There is not, probably, one in
the empire who would venture to open a vein or amputate a finger.
CASE XLII.
CHINESE SUMMER AND WINTER CAPS.
660. Black satin cap, worn by the Buddhist priests.
661 & 662. Summer caps, worn by private gentlemen.
663. Gentleman's satin winter cap.
175
664.
665.
Embroidered canonical head dress.
Winter caps, made of crape.
666. A gentleman's cap, made of a sort of felt, and worn in winter,
called "Maou-chen."
667 & 668. Children's embroidered caps.
669. A gentleman's winter cap, made of crape and velvet.
670 & 671. A pair of gentleman's long leather boots, for wet weather.
672 & 673. Ladies' small leather boots for wet weather.
674.
Ladies' small leather shoes, with wooden soles.
675. Lady's leather boots of a small size.
676.
Women's leather shoes with wooden soles.
CASE XLIII.
CHINESE SHOES.
677. Shoes for ladies having large feet, of which a great variety is
exhibited in this case. The lower part of the soles is formed
of dressed pig's skin, the rest of compressed paper.
678. Shoes for ladies having small feet, called by the Chinese “Kin-
lëen" " Golden lilies."
679.
Shoes for ladies, same as No. 677.
680 & 681.
Childrens' summer shoes.
682. Do. do. the upper parts made of grass.
683 & 684. Pair of lady's small shoes, the upper parts made of
685. Gentlemen's shoes of various patterns.
grass.
686. Gentlemen's shoes for wet weather, the upper part being of satin,
the lower of wood, they are called Shwuy heae, "water clogs,"
and muh heae, "wooden shoes."
CASE XLIV.
SMALL PORCELAIN ARTICLES.
687. A porcelain night lamp.
688. Do. medicinal vessel.
176
689. A small porcelain flower pot.
690 & 691. Two porcelain lamps in common use.
692. An ancient porcelain tea-pot.
693 to 695. Porcelain spoons and stands in general use.
696. A small porcelain medicinal vessel.
697.
A porcelain tea-pot for boat use, suspended by wires from eyes
in the upper part.
698. Several brown porcelain tea-pots, to which the Chinese are very
699.
partial.
A porcelain medicinal vessel.
700 & 701. Two porcelain dishes divided into compartments for sweet-
meats.
702. Beautifully painted rice dish.
703 & 704. Two small white porcelain sweetmeat dishes.
705. A porcelain rice jar.
706 & 707. Two very richly painted hand basins.
708. A large flower-pot with raised figures of a peculiar ware resem-
bling bronze.
+
CASE XLV.
SMALL PORCELAIN ARTICLES.
709 & 710. Two very beautiful porcelain plates, on the former of
which are written sentences, with various painted figures.
711. A small porcelain vessel, on which is painted a grotesque figure
of a
"kwei."
712 & 713. Two beautifully painted cups with covers and stands of
egg shell china.
714 & 715.
716 & 717.
Two do. do. of a different pattern.
Two small porcelain tea-pots, on which are painted several
figures and different maxims.
718 & 719. Two elegantly painted plates, and various cups of the
finest porcelain.
177
720.
A small and very ancient porcelain tea pot.
721 & 722.
723 & 724.
725 & 726.
727 & 728.
729 & 730.
Two small porcelain plates exquisitely painted.
A pair of beautifully painted flower jars.
A pair of flower pots painted and gilt.
A pair of smaller ditto.
A pair of porcelain tea cups with stands and covers, the
workmanship of which is of the most gorgeous des-
cription.
731. A porcelain flower jar.
732.
Do. vase, a style of ware highly esteemed by the Chinese.
The lower section of this case is entirely filled with porcelain ware of
the richest description.
CASE XLVI.
ÁRTICLES OF VERTÛ, &c.
733 & 734. Two silk girdles to confine the dress, which every gentle-
man in China wears.
735. A porcelain bowl with a painting of the jungle fowl,
736. Very singular root of the bamboo, representing an old man
wrapt in his mantle.
737 & 738. Two small incense vessels in glass.
739. Singular carving of a horse with a scroll on his back.
740. Carved ivory stamp or seal, having several concentric spheres in
the handle.
741. Singular stone, having the appearance of a Chinese apple.
742.
743.
Wine cups of pressed glass in imitation of stone. These arc
formed in various shapes, frequently square, and are used at
feasts and marriage entertainments.
Ornamental stand with bronze Buddha idol.
744. Ancient porcelain incense vessel on stand.
M
178
745. Small ebony boxes, inlaid with pearl shell, and containing flint,
steel, and punk.
746. Curious stone in form of a mango.
747.
Several pairs of ivory "chop sticks," seang choo, made use of by
the Chinese in the place of a knife and fork as with us.
748. A brown figured porcelain pen-holder.
749.
750.
751.
A vessel to contain water used with Indian ink, cut out of a stone
in form of fruit.
Ornamental stand and vessel.
A small metallic mirror, on carved stand.
752. Curious porcelain vessel.
753.
754.
A beautiful small incense vessel, on stand.
Metallic mirror, as 751.
755. Antique porcelain vessel or cage, on stand, for containing sweet
scented flowers, emitting an agreeable perfume.
756. A beautiful sculptured marble vase, having for its handle a
representation of a lion drinking from the vessel.
757.
Gentleman's embroidered watch pocket.
758 & 759. Gentlemen's embroidered knee-pans, for protecting the
knee when kneeling before the mandarins.
760. Miniature painting of a Chinese lady on ivory.
761 & 762. A pair of beautifully painted jars.
763.
Ornamental rose-wood stand, with amulets on the top.
Here will also be noticed several "6 Charm-books," very small in size,
and containing virtuous sentences, which are supposed to keep off evil
spirits. These are carried about the person. The Chinese inscribe
words and sentences on their girdles, and paste them on the lintels and
posts of their doors, not only as moral sayings worthy to be remembered
and practically observed, but from the impression that they shall thereby
be protected from noxious diseases and calamities often inflicted by
invisible beings.
764. Beautiful fan for ladies' use, made in part of peacocks' feathers'
and in part of elegantly embroidered work.
765 & 766.
767 to 769.
A pair of gentleman's tobacco pouches.
Specimens of carving from the bamboo tree.
179
770. A lady's fan, elegantly painted on silk, with ivory handle.
771 & 772. Gentleman's net-work, worn next the skin in warm
weather, made of the twig of the bamboo.
773. Gentlemen's embroidered sash, with a pair of purses carried at the
girdle of the wearer, for holding areca nuts, &c.
Purses," says Sir Geo. Staunton, "are the ribands of the Chinese
monarch, which he distributes as rewards of merit among his subjects ;
but his own purse, (alluding to a similar present made to the page of the
British Ambassador) was deemed a mark of personal favour, according to
the ideas of eastern nations, among whom anything worn by the person
of the sovereign, is prized beyond all other gifts." The Imperial purse
is of plain yellow silk, with the figure of the five-clawed dragon, and
some Tartar characters worked in it.
774. A gentleman's fan, with embroidered case, and two crimson silk
sashes, as 773.
775 & 776. A pair of sandals, worn by coolies, the soles are made of
strips of loose leather, placed crossways.
777.
A pair of sandals, being a piece of flat leather, with a loop for the
great toe, and strings for the heel.
778. A pair of sandals, made from rice straw.
779.
CASE XLVII.
MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES.
Ornamental stand with gilt Buddha.
780. Small metallic vase, inlaid with silver.
781. Small copper box, of peculiar shape, to contain the lime which is
used for chewing with the nut of the areca palm, areca catechu,
and the betel leaf, piper betel, used as a masticatory so uni-
versally throughout the East.
The habit of chewing this preparation has extended from the islands,
where the plant is found, to the continent of Asia, and is now used from
the Red Sea to the Pacific Ocean. Most of that imported into China
M 2
180
comes from Java, Malacca, and Penang. The areca nut is the fruit of a
slender palm, not over six inches in diameter, and thirty feet high. The
nut resembles a nutmeg in shape, colour, and internal structure, but is a
little harder and larger, and is called betel nut from its being always
eaten in combination with the leaf of the betel pepper. The flavour of
the leaf is very peculiar, having an aromatic taste and is a little
pungent. This vine requires a rich soil, and an abundance of water.
The tree on which it is supported, it is affirmed, affects the quality
and quantity of the produce. The preparation of the betel nut for
use is very simple. The nut is cut into slices, and wrapped in the
raw leaves, together with a quantity of quick-lime, made of the
shells of small molluscae carefully calcined for this purpose, enough to
give it a flavour; to the latter is added a mixture of a red colour. All
classes of people, male and female, are in the habit of chewing it.
"It
sweetens the breath," so say those who use it, "it rectifies and strengthens
the stomach, and preserves the teeth;" it gives the teeth, lips, and
gums, a dark red colour, which is esteemed a mark of beauty in propor-
tion to its deeper shade. Persons of rank carry it prepared for use in
splendid cases, suspended from their girdles. A present of one of these
cases is esteemed a mark of high favour and friendship, and is valued
accordingly. Poor people are contented with cases of simple construc-
tion, provided they contain the substance itself. In the streets and
thoroughfares of Canton, temporary stalls are erected for the sale of this
luxury, and the wayfarer may be refreshed, in the outlay of a single cash,
by a modicum of this preparation.
782. A grotesque lion (on a stand) of white porcelain. This kind of
porcelain is held in higher esteem by the Chinese than any
other. As a proof of this, it may be stated that the value of
this small lion in China was about four pounds sterling.
Vessel of white porcelain, for holding sweet scented flowers,
representing a grotesque animal, the head of which is so formed
that it can be taken off. The flowers are placed in the body,
and the odour is exhaled through the mouth.
783.
784. Figure of a camel, in white porcelain, with a dog on his back,
785. Paper weight, of hard stone, sculptured.
181
786. Metallic pipe, from the province of Keang Nan; the lower part of
which is filled with water, and smoked on the principle of the
hookah of Bengal, &c.; tobacco being used cut into very fine
shreds, and the pipe filled at every inhalation by a servant, who
stands behind the smoker.
787 & 788. Two curiously carved roots.
789. Specimen of beautifully embossed lacquered ware, from Soochow.
790. A grotesque porcelain dog.
791. Broad rings of jade stone (yu) worn upon the thumb by archers
in using the bow, to prevent chafing. The value of these stone
rings depends upon their color; as much as five hundred dollars
has been given by a Chinese for one of a peculiar shade.
792. Combs with maxims.
793. Small cases of coloured horse-hair, intended to hold sweet scented
flowers, and carried in the hand.
794. Brush used by printers to apply the ink to the wooden blocks, on
which is a smaller brush, made of vegetable fibres, and used
for various purposes.
795. Small boxes of stained wood, opening with a spring, and covered
with coloured straw, made at Fuh-chow, the capital of Fuh-këen
province.
796. Brushes used by house painters, with the hair inserted deep into
the handles. When worn down, the wood is cut away to
expose the bristles, and the operation is repeated until the
brush is worn out.
797. Small pillows, used by the Chinese when reclining on any hard
substance.
798. Pair of spectacles, of curious construction.
799. Tobacco-pipe, as described in 786.
800. Writing pencils. The better kinds are protected by a brass case,
it being essential to have a fine point in writing.
801. A grotesque porcelain unicorn.
802.
Elaborate piece of carving from the root of the bamboo, of very
extravagant device.
803. Small marble vase, formed from the cup of the flower of the lotus.
182
804. Embroidered pocket, worn by gentlemen.
805. Silk bags, having a maxim embroidered on the side; for tobacco,
and attached to the pipe.
806. A tea service of novel construction used by government officers,
and forming part of their travelling apparatus. The cups and
saucers are of hard wood, lined and edged with white copper.
807. Chinese ivory puzzle.
808.
Chinese gaming cards.
They are of various sorts; the most ancient and elegant are called
"Teen-tsze-pae," dotted cards. The dots have a reference to the
stars. They were introduced by the Emperor Seuen-ho; and were ori-
ginally called "Ya pae,” Bone or ivory tickets."
809. A Chinese printed book of maxims.
810.
Beautiful beads, turned from fragments of the malachite, or
green copper ore, found near Nankin; they are used in neck-
laces for mandarins.
811. Rosary made of the seed vessels of a plant.
812.
An article made of copper, and used for the same purpose as our
flat-irons. The smooth surface is here exhibited; the body is
hollow, and receives the ignited coals.
Gentlemen's embroidered memorandum case.
813.
814.
do.
do.
pockets.
815. Embroidered spectacle case.
816. Leather purses used by the lower classes.
817. Leather (dog's skin) tobacco pouch.
818. Painting brush, composed of dyed horse-hair.
819.
820.
821.
A basket ingeniously worked in bamboo.
Ornamental stand with odoriferous matches, which are burned in
the houses of the Chinese day and night, and in sacrificing to
their divinities.
A brown porcelain incense vessel.
822. Model of a machine for pounding rice, sugar, &c. It is put in
operation by a coolie* standing on the frame, and moving the
lever with one foot.
*The word Coolie here used is an Indian word, common among foreigners in
Canton, as a translation of the Chinese Kwan-teen, applied to those who carry burdens.
183
823 & 824.
Earthen vessel in frame work of bamboo, used as hand-
furnaces at Canton, and in the northern part of China, during
cold weather, called "Ho-lung."
825. Model of a hand mill for grinding rice, &c.
826. A porcelain drum, used as a rest for the arm.
827. Mosquito brushes.
828.
829.
CASE XLVIII.
SPECIMENS OF FINE CARVING, &c.
Coral bead necklace, worn by mandarins and gentlemen of rank.
Beautiful carved ornamental stand of hard wood, with a marble
image of Buddha in the centre, inlaid metallic tripod on the
right, and a dormant lion on the left.
830. Curiously distorted root, which, by the assistance of a little art,
has the appearance of a bird.
831.
Curious piece of sculpture, representing a bird attacked by a
monster of the lizard species.
832. Marble figure and stand.
833. Marble pencil rests.
834 & 835. A pair of ornamental barrel-shaped stands, the one on the
left hand supporting a metallic censer; that on the right a
vessel with shovel, &c., for arranging the ashes of the odori-
ferous matches.
836.
An ornamental stand, on which is a superb carving, from the root
of a bamboo tree, representing a grotesque figure feeding a frog.
837. A small root of a tree on a stand, resembling a deer.
838. A travelling apparatus, containing a knife, and pair of chop-sticks,
with which every gentleman is provided.
839.
Carved wooden figure and stand.
840. A very ancient white porcelain bottle-shaped vase, ornamented
with a lizard, water lilies, and foliage, on a small stand of
carved polished wood.
184
841. Ancient metallic idol.
842. Curiously sculptured stone pen rests.
843. An ornamental stand, with bronze idols.
This specimen is supposed to be a thousand years old. It has been
elsewhere remarked that Buddhism was introduced into China from India,
about the first century of the Christian era; and the idols here exhibited
are thought to have been of a very early importation into that country.
844. Joo-ee, a sort of staff or sceptre.
It is thus described by Mr. Davis :-this ornament, which has some-
times, for want of a better name, been called a sceptre, is, in fact, an
emblem of amity and good will, of a shape less bent than the letter S,
about eighteen inches in length, and cut from the jade or yu stone. It
is called joo-ee," as you wish," or as the phrase is, "Sze Sze, joo-ee," i. e.
Every thing according to (your) wish," an expression of good feeling
towards a person, and is simply exchanged as a costly mark of friend-
ship; but that it had a religious origin seems indicated by the sacred
flower of the lotus (Nymphæa nelumbo) being generally carved on the
superior end.
Dr. Morrison also remarks that joo-ees were carried in
the hands by ancient governors or princes of state, as the signal of
authority; the emperor gave them as the badge or seal of his ap-
pointment. They are frequently of great value.
845 & 846.
Ornamental stands, on which are carvings from the root of
the bamboo.
847. Ornamental stand, with ancient bronze lion.
848. Curious root on stand, exhibiting a bird.
S49.
Very ancient sculptured dog.
850.
Polished cornelian in carved frame, intended to support a cake of
ink.
851 to 855. Five beautiful carvings on stands.
856 & 857. Two carved and polished barrel-shaped stands, on which
are very ancient and grotesque bronze lions.
858.
Metallic figure, representing a female divinity on a recumbent
elephant.
859 & 860. A pair of very beautiful ornamental stands, with marble
tops, on which are grotesque sculptured figures, and elegantly
wrought baskets of bamboo.
185
861.
Ornamental stand, with variegated marble top, on which is placed
a stone in a frame formed from the root of a tree.
This is covered with sculptured hieroglyphics, and is held by the
Chinese in religious veneration.
CASES XLIX & L.
CONCHOLOGY.
These cases, with the opposite, (23 and 24), are filled with numerous
specimens of conchology, which are labelled.
CASE LI.
ORNITHOLOGY, &c.
862. Perdix Picta....
Painted Partridge.
863.
Ditto
Ditto.
Falcated duck.
Manis.
Chinese Quail.
864. Querquedula Falcaria ...
865. Manis Javanica ....
866. Coturnix Sinensis
867. Lanius ....
868.
Turdus....
869. Loxia Sinensis
870. Fringilla Rutilans
871.
Ditto
872. Psittacus
873. Ditto
874.
Emberiza
875. Loxia Sinensis
876. Sturnus Unicolor
877. Fulica Chloropus ....
878.
879.
Gallinula Phonicura………
Anas Acuta
Shrike.
Thrush.
Chinese Grosbeak.
Redbacked Sparrow.
Ditto female.
Blue Crowned Parrot.
Ditto female.
Bunting.
Chinese Grosbeak, female.
One coloured Starling.
Common Gallinule.
White bellied Gallinule.
Pintail Duck.
186
880.
881
Hystrix Cristata
882.
Paradoxuras Larvatus
883. Viverra Indica Pallida
Red-breasted Pigeon.
Porcupine.
Masked Paradoxure.
Indian Civette or Rasse.
This animal yields the Dedes, a scent much esteemed by the Malays.
CASE LII.
ORNITHOLOGY, &c.
884. Anas Baikal ……..
Chinese Duck.
885.
Coturnix
Common Quail.
886.
Anthus
Lark.
887.
Herodius Garzetta ...... Little Egret.
The egret, stork, crane and other shore birds are favorites of the
Chinese; the crane is an emblem of longevity; and similes are taken
from the soaring flight, periodical migrations, nightly screams, and other
habits of these birds.
888.
Oriolus Sinensis
889. Strix Brachiotus
890. Alcedo Saera
891.
Cossiphus Gularis
892. Fringilla Kawarahiba
893. Emberiza Lathami
894. Gallinula Phœnicura...
895.
Leiothorx Furcatus
896. Yunx Torquilla………….
897. Anas Penelope
898. Querquedula Crecca
899.
Viverra Zibetha
.
Golden Thrush.
Short-eared Owl.
Kingfisher.
Pied Thrush.
Finch.
Latham's Bunting,
Gallinule.
Chinese Robin.
Wryneck.
Widgeon.
Common Teal.
Chinese Zibeth.
Musk Martin.
This animal yields the scent called Zibeth.
900. Helictes Moschata
187
*
901.
Paradoxuras Larvatus
Masked Paradoxure.
Of zoology as a science, the Chinese know very little; their obser-
vations being confined to species. Their classification of animals is,
however, better than that of plants, as the marks by which the former
are grouped in popular classifications are much less recondite than in the
latter. An old and popular arrangement of the whole animal world by
the Chinese is into five divisions: that of feathered, hairy, naked, shelly,
and scaly animals; at the head of each of these divisions stands a type,
technically called chang, chief or superior. The phoenix, unicorn, man,
tortoise, and dragon, are the respective types of these divisions, and in
themselves comprise all the good qualities of all the other 360 species
found in it.
The arrangement followed in the Pun Tsaou is more elaborate than the
popular one, and exhibits more study than that found in any other work;
animals are there assorted into groups sufficiently natural, but as there
are no settled principles of arrangement, it still comprises many anoma-
lies; as, for instance, the bat and flying squirrel are said to be the only
birds with hairy wings, and the pangolin (manis) the only fish that has
legs!
CASE LIII.
902 & 903. Artificial candles, decorated with flowers made from the
pith of a plant, known in this country, by the term “ ricc-
paper."
These candles are used in temples in front of their idols, in the houses
of the wealthy, and in the celebration of the new year, a moveable feast,
which occurs on the second new moon after the winter solstice. The
body or stem of the candle is of wood, and at the top, instead of wick, is
inserted a small brass receptacle for oil, as being more economical.
A great variety of ornaments made of tinsel, in imitation of flowers,
persons, &c. are also used upon the above occasions, which the Chinese
make out of iron, rice, and brass leaf, for religious purposes. Their
188
manufacture employs a separate class of workmen, and they are made to
sell from one mace to one hundred dollars and upwards a pair. Their
form somewhat resembles a bundle of plumes; the figures are inserted
upon the front, and the appearance is gaudy in the highest degree.
904. A military officer's saddle, bridle, &c. It is one of the most
expensive kind, and such as are but seldom seen. Those used
by inferior officers are generally of leather and nankeen.
905. A large porcelain dish on a stand, containing two specimens of
enamel, in imitation of the Pekin peaches.
906. Lamp carried on the shoulders of a bearer in marriage proces-
sions.
907. Lamp pole for the above.
908 & 909. Splendid specimens of embroidery, worked by men, as is
often the case in China. The Chinese excel all other nations
in the art of embroidery.
910 & 911. Two ornamental stands, and plates of fruit, modelled in
clay.
912 & 913. Candles, as described in Nos. 902 & 903.
914 & 915. Ingeniously worked silk tassels, attached to bed hangings.
916. On the bottom of this case is spread a Chinese carpet, being a
specimen of their few woollen manufactures. The pattern is
printed similar to our druggets.
From the ceiling of this case is suspended a state lantern, richly em-
broidered and decorated.
917. Argus Pavoninus
918. Columba Turtur
919. Pastor
920. Columba Turtur .......
921. Argus Pavoninus
922. Paloor Malaccensis ....
CASE LIV.
ORNITHOLOGY.
Argus Pheasant.
Spotted-necked Turtle Dove.
Starling,
.... Spotted-necked Turtle Dove.
Argus Pheasant, female.
Malacca Ring Parrakeet.

[DIR]
189
State chair, as described in No. 372.
CASE LVI.
CHINESE PAGODA.
Contains a model of a pagoda, seven stories high, beautifully carved
from gypsum. On the floor of each story is placed a gilt Buddha idol.
CASE LVII.
Contains numerous specimens of insects.
CASES LVIII & LIX.
Contain a variety of butterflies.
CASE LX.
Various specimens of fish from the waters of China, so prepared and
preserved as to need only their natural element to give them the ap-
pearance of life.
CHINESE LANTERNS.
THESE depend from the ceiling in all parts of the saloon, and are of
almost every imaginable form and size. In scarcely any thing do the
taste and ingenuity of the Chinese appear to better advantage than in
the manufacture of these curious and characteristic articles. They are
made of horn, silk, glass, paper, and sometimes of a netting of fine
thread overspread with a thick coating of varnish. The frame work is
often carved in the richest manner; the silk which covers it is elegantly
embroidered or painted with landscapes representing nature in her gayest
190
moods, and the various decorations lavished upon them are in a corres-
ponding style. As a national ornament peculiar to the Chinese, the
lantern does not give place to any similar display, found in any other
country.
The fondness of the Chinese for lamps and lanterns, and the universal
use of them, constitutes one of the marked peculiarities in the customs
of the race.
A late writer remarks, that a Chinaman and his lantern
seem wedded together, and the former is rarely found without the latter.
They are placed in the streets, temples, boats, &c., and are always to
be seen in the hands of pedestrians after dark. The same writer relates
the following amusing anecdote, as affording a striking and original
exemplification of both the power and habit of the national peculiarity
above referred to:-" When Captain Maxwell passed the Bogue in the
Alceste frigate, as he came up with the battery of the A-nung-hoy, the fort
appeared well lighted, and a brisk cannonade was commenced upon the
ship. However, after the first broadside had been fired upon the for-
tress, and when the vessel was scarcely a half musket-shot from it, the
whole place was deserted, and the embrasures were quickly dark-
ened. The Chinese were thoroughly frightened, and ran off with a
most edifying precipitation. At the same time, instead of concealing
their flight in the darkness of the night, each man seized his lantern, as
he had done a hundred times before, and clambered with it up the steep
side of the hill immediately behind the fort. The sight of so many bald-
pated soldiers, with their long cues dangling at their back, each with
a great painted balloon in his hand, was extremely ludicrous, and took
away any slight inclination the marines might have had to get a shot
with their muskets at such excellent marks."
The lamp oil in common use is extracted from the ground-nut, Arachis
Hypogen, which grows luxuriantly in China. The same kind is used for
culinary purposes, and supplies almost entirely the place of butter. It
is said to be of a very good quality, burning freely, and with but little
smoke.
191
MAXIMS ON THE ENTABLATURE AND OTHER PARTS OF THE SALOON.
"Good sayings are like pearls strung together: inscribe them on the walls
of your dwelling, and regard them night and day as wholesome admoni-
tions."-(Chinese maxim.)
The "excellent sayings" of the Chinese philosophers are held in the
highest veneration. In allusion to the precepts of Confucius, they speak
of them as The glory of ancient and modern times."-He is termed,
The instructor of ten thousand ages," and is styled by his followers,
"The perfect Sage," Most Holy."
Mencius, a disciple of Confucius, who figures largely in Chinese his-
tory, was the writer of that portion of " The Four Books," which goes
by his name, (B.C. 350,) contemporary with Xenophon, Herodotus, and
Socrates.
These maxims (Tuy-lëen) are written on silk or paper, or carved on
wood, and are hung in pairs, on the walls or pillars of dwellings and
temples as ornaments. In ancient times, before the invention of paper,
documents were written on slips of bamboo, on which characters were
inscribed with a pointed instrument; a practice in use prior to the
invention of pencils and ink.
The visitor will observe that over the capital of each pillar is a piece
of carving of circular form, gilt and painted vermillion and green alter-
nately. There are ten of these on each side of the saloon. Each has
a Chinese character carved in the centre. The characters on the right
to a person entering, form the following maxim :-Loo yaou che ma
leih jih kew këen jin sin. The interpretation of which is, “By a long
journey we know a horse's strength; so length of days shows a man's
heart.*"
:
The characters on the opposite side of the room, commencing from
the lower end, form the following maxim:-Kwa tëen puh nă le:
le hea puh ching kwan. The interpretation of which is, in a field of
melons, do not pull up your shoe: under a plum tree, do not adjust your
cap: i. e., be careful of your actions under circumstances of suspicion.”
The Chinese call the heart, the "well in the centre.”
192
Between these circular carvings are maxims placed horizontally, and
extending around the whole entablature. As is customary in China,
the maxims here placed opposite each other, are embellished exactly
alike, though the maxims themselves are not the same. It is unneces-
sary to give the interpretation of all these, as there are so many.
few are subjoined as specimens :—
A
"As the scream of the eagle is heard when she has passed over,
so a man's name remains after his death,"
Though a tree be a thousand chang* in height, its leaves must fall
down, and return to its root."
"Following virtue is like ascending an eminence, pursuing vice is like
rushing down a precipice."
Man perishes in the pursuit of wealth, as a bird meets with destruc-
tion in search of its food."
"The cure of ignorance is study, as meat is that of hunger."
Unsullied poverty is always happy; while impure wealth brings with
it many sorrows."
Petty distinctions are injurious to rectitude; quibbling words violate
right reason."
Those who respect themselves will be honourable; but he who
thinks lightly of himself, will be held cheap by the world."
It is equally criminal in the governor and the governed to violate
the laws."
In learning, age and youth go for nothing; the best informed take
the precedence."
"Time flies like an arrow; days and months like a weaver's shuttle."
In making a candle we seek for light, in reading a book we seek
for reason; light to illuminate a dark chamber; reason to enlighten
man's heart."
"Let every man sweep the snow from before his own doors, and not
trouble himself about the frost on his neighbour's tiles."
"In security do not forget danger; in times of public tranquillity do
not forget anarchy."
* A chang is ten Chinese cubits, each fourteen and a half inches.
193
<<
By learning, the sons of the common people become public ministers;
without learning, the sons of public ministers become mingled with the
mass of the people."
"A man by the cultivation of virtue, consults his own interest; his
stores of wisdom and reflection are every day filling up."
Confucius says," the capacity for knowledge of the inferior man is
small and easily filled up; the intelligence of the superior man is deep
and not easily satisfied."
Would you understand the character of the Prince, examine his
ministers ; would you know the disposition of any man, look at his
companions; would you know that of a father, look at his son."
"Those who have discharged their duties as children, will in their
turn have dutiful children of their own; the obstinate and untoward will
again produce offspring of the same character: to convince you, only
observe the rain from the thatched roof, where drop follows drop
without the least variation.”
Virtue is the surest road to longevity; but vice meets with an
early doom."
The brief, sententious sayings of gifted men in all ages and nations
have exerted a powerful influence over the public mind; and it must
be admitted, that in general, they contribute largely to promote social
comfort, propriety, morality, and correct judgment. Such are the inspired
proverbs of Solomon, which will endure through all time. Such too, the
fine old proverbs of England, Spain, and France, as well as thousands of
maxims of the people of Asia.-Indeed, the aphorisms of a country
may be quoted, as indicating, in some measure, the genius, sense, and
mental characteristics of its inhabitants; and we know of no nobler
monuments of ancient literature, than the proverbs which have been
transmitted to us. How common-how almost necessary, both in
speaking and writing is the introduction of some maxim by way of
enforcing an argument or promoting a principle! And many of the best
passages in the essays and other compositions of modern authors,
will often be found, on a careful investigation, to contain the exact
sentiments of an old proverb, though, perhaps, somewhat elaborated,
and clothed in the costume of novel phraseology. The Chinese are
N
194
celebrated, even more than the Persians, Arabs, and Hindoos, for their
aphorisms and maxims.
We have elsewhere noticed the striking similarity that exists between
many ancient maxims of the Chinese, and the precepts contained in Holy
Writ. We subjoin a few of the moral aphorisms that adorn their tem-
ples and dwellings; and which will be found to harmonize with many
passages of Scripture :-
CHINESE MAXIMS.
"Virtue is the surest road to
longevity; but vice meets with an
early doom."
"Unsullied poverty is always
happy; while impure wealth brings
with it many sorrows.'
""
"The heart is the fountain of
life."
Wine and good dinners make
abundance of friends: but, in the
time of adversity, not one is to be
found."
Honours come by diligence :
riches spring from economy."
“If a man be not enlightened
from within, what lamp shall he
light? If his intentions are not
upright, what prayers shall he re-
peat?
If you love your son, give him
plenty of the cudgel: if you hate
your son, cram him with dain-
ties."
PROVERBS OF SOLOMON.
"The fear of the Lord prolongeth
days: but the years of the wicked
shall be shortened."-Chap. x.v.27.
"Treasures of wickedness profit
nothing; but righteousness deli-
vereth from death.”—Chap. x. v. 2.
"Out of the heart are the is-
sues of life.”—Chap. iv. 23.
Many will entreat the favour
of the Prince; and every man is a
friend to him that giveth gifts.".
Chap. xix. v. 6.
The hand of the diligent shall
bear rule: but the slothful shall be
under tribute.”—Chap. xii. v. 24.
The sacrifice of the wicked is
abomination: how much more
when he bringeth it with a wicked
mind."-Chap. xxi. v. 27.
"He that spareth his rod hateth
his son: but he that loveth him
chasteneth him betimes.”
betimes."-Chap.
xiii. v. 24.

t
1
>
JOILKS
DHM
k
195
"The slow horse is fated to re-
ceive the lash: the worthless man
will ultimately get his deserts."
"A virtuous woman is a source
of honour to her husband: a vi-
cious one causes him disgrace !"
´´´ When mandarins are pure, the
people are happy.'
"A man without money is a
reptile: but with money a dragon."
Every blade of grass has its
share of the dews of heaven; and
though the birds of the forest have
no garners, the wide world is all
before them."
Wisdom, and virtue, and be-
nevolence, and rectitude, without
politeness, are imperfect.”
That which touches vermillion
is reddened."
A whip for the horse, a bridle
for the ass, and a rod for the fool's
back.”—Chap. xxvi. v. 3.
"A virtuous woman is a crown
to her husband: but she that
maketh ashamed is as rottenness
in his bones."—Chap. xii. v. 4.
'
When the righteous are in
authority, the people rejoice: but
when the wicked beareth rule, the
people mourn."-Chap. xxix. v. 2.
The rich man's wealth is his
strong city: the destruction of the
poor is their poverty.-Chap. x. v.
15.
r
Behold the fowls of the air;
for they sow not, neither do they
reap, nor gather into barns; yet
your heavenly Father feedeth
them!" (Christ's sermon on the
mount.)—Matt. vi. v. 26.
But the fruit of the Spirit is
love, joy, peace, long-suffering,
gentleness, goodness, faith," &c.—
Paul to the Gal. chap. v. v. 22.
"Evil communications corrupt
good manners."-Paul to the Cor.
chap. xv. v 33
N 2
196
•
PAINTINGS.
[The enumeration of pictures in the collection commences with No. 1000,
which the visitor will find on the left hand of the screen fronting the en-
trance to the saloon.
It may be proper here to remark, that all paintings and drawings in this
collection are by Chinese artists exclusively.]
The fine arts in China are undoubtedly far from having reached the
perfection that belongs to them in the enlightened nations of Christen-
dom; yet an examination-of the paintings in this collection, will satisfy
every candid mind that great injustice has been done to Chinese artists,
in the opinions hitherto entertained respecting their want of ability and
skill. They paint insects, birds, fishes, fruits, flowers, and portraits, with
great correctness and beauty; and the brilliancy and variety of their
colours cannot be surpassed. They group with considerable taste and
effect; and their perspective, a department of the art in which they have
been thought totally deficient, is often very good. Light and shade they
do not well understand, and they positively object to the introduction of
shadows in pictures. But in paintings for foreigners, they endeavour to
meet the ideas of their employers, by the introduction of light and shadow.
Barrow, as quoted by Davis, says, that when several portraits by the
best European artists, intended as presents for the emperor, were
exposed to view, the mandarins, observing the variety of tints occasioned
by the light and shade, asked whether the originals had the two sides of
different colours. They considered the shadow of the nose as a great
imperfection in the figure, and some supposed it to have been placed
there by accident."
1000 to 1023. A series of coloured drawings, (twenty-four in num-
ber,) representing the several stages of the black tea process,
from the picking of the leaves to its final transportation,
as practised in Fokien, lying between the 27 and 28 degs.
north latitude, on the south east declivities of a range of hills,
dividing that province from Keang-se.
The Bohea hills, which name has been introduced into the English
197
through the Fokien pronunciation of Woo-e, include two ranges, one of
which is called the Woo hills, and the other the E hills, and are situated
in the department of Keen-ning, and the district of Tsung-gan, being a
part of a chain of mountains which runs through the central parts of the
empire.
The name given the hills is derived from two brothers, Woo and E,
who were sons of an ancient prince, and when he died refused to suc-
ceed him, but retired to settle on these hills far from their patrimony,
and built them a dwelling, which after their death was called the palace
of Woo-e. There is a temple to their memory, in which incense is burnt.
The circuit of the hills is 120 le, in all of which the tea is raised. A
stream divides the hills, the E being on the north side, and the Woo on
the south; and the tea from the former is considered the best, probably
because of the southerly exposure given to the plants. There are many
villages among the hills where the cultivators and tea farmers reside, but
the tea itself is for the most part brought for sale to the village of
Singtsün, where are shops and warehouses for exposing it, and where
the purchasers come to examine and price the different qualities.
1024 to 1027.
1028 to 1030.
Four interior views, of Ponkeiqua's grounds at Honan.
These three drawings, with those on the opposite pillar,
(Nos. 1333, 4 & 5) represent the rearing of the silk worm as
conducted at Nankin, from the hatching of the silk worm egg,
to the final weaving of the silk, together with the culture of
the mulberry tree.
Mr. Barrow, who observed the management of the trees and silk
worms in Chě-Keang, confirms the usual Chinese accounts, by saying,
that the houses in which they are reared are placed generally in the
centre of each plantation, in order that they may be removed as far
as possible from every kind of noise: experience having taught then
that a sudden shout, or bark of a dog, is destructive of the young
worms. A whole brood has sometimes perished by a thunder storm.”
The chambers are so contrived as to admit the use of artificial heat when
necessary. Great care is taken of the sheets of paper on which the
multitudes of eggs have been laid by the silk-worm moths; and the
198
hatching of their eggs is either retarded or advanced, by the application of
cold or heat, according to circumstances, so as to time the simultaneous
exit of the young worms, exactly to the period when the tender spring
leaves of the mulberry are most fit for their nourishment.
They proportion the food very exactly to the young worms, by weigh-
ing the leaves, which, in the first instance, are cut into small pieces, but
afterwards, as the insects become larger, are given to them whole.
The greatest precautions are observed in regulating the temperature of
the apartments, and in keeping them clean, quiet, and free from smells.
The worms are fed upon a species of small hurdles of basket work,
strewed with leaves, which are frequently shifted for the sake of clean-
liness, the insects readily moving off to a fresh hurdle, with new leaves,
as the scent attracts them. In proportion to their growth, room is
afforded them by increasing the number of these hurdles, the worms of
one being shifted to three, then to six, and so on, until they reach the
greatest size.
When the worms have cast their several skins, reached their greatest
size, and assumed a transparent yellowish colour, they are removed
into places divided into compartments, preparatory to their spin-
ning.
In the course of a week after the commencement of spinning, the
silken cocoons are complete, and it now becomes necessary to take
them in hand, before the pupæ turn into moths, which would imme-
diately bore their way out, and spoil the cocoons. When a certain
number, therefore, have been laid aside for the sake of future eggs, the
pupæ in the bulk of the cocoons are killed, by being placed in jars,
under layers of salt and leaves, with a complete exclusion of air.
They are subsequently placed in moderately warm water, which dis-
solves the glutinous substance that binds the silk together, and the
filament is wound off upon reels. This is put up in bundles of a certain
size and weight, and either becomes an article of merchandise, under
the name of “ raw silk," or is subjected to the loom, and manufac-
tured into various stuffs, for home or foreign consumption. Notwith-
standing the apparent simplicity of their looms, they will imitate exactly
the newest and most delicate pattern from England or France. The
199
Chinese particularly excel in the production of damasks and flow-
ered satins. Their crape has never yet been perfectly imitated; and
they make a species of washing silk, called at Canton pongee, which
becomes more soft as it is longer used.
The two pursuits or professions, namely, husbandry and the silk
manufacture, the chief sources of food and clothing, form the subject of
the sixteen discourses to the people, which are elsewhere noticed. It is
there observed, that "from ancient times the Son of Heaven himself
Thus
directed the plough; the Empress planted the mulberry tree.
have these exalted personages, not above the practice of labour and
exertion, set an example to all under heaven, with a view to leading
millions of their subjects to attend to their essential interests.”
In the work, published by imperial authority, called " Illustrations of
Husbandry and Weaving," under the latter head is detailed all the opera-
tions connected with planting the mulberry, and gathering the leaves,
up to the final weaving of the silk. Besides the common mulberry of
China, which differs somewhat from that of Europe, they occasionally,
in feeding the worms, have recourse to a wild specimen of the morus
tribe, as well as to the leaves of another tree, supposed to be a variety
of ash. The principal object, in the cultivation of the mulberry for
feeding silkworms, is to produce the greatest quantity of young and
healthy leaves, without fruit. For this reason, the trees are not allowed
to exceed a certain age and height. They are planted at a convenient
distance from each other, on the plan of a quincunx, and are said to be
in perfection in about three years. The mulberry tree for silk-worms
is chiefly cultivated in Che-keang, which province, together with the
only three others that produce fine silk, namely, Keang-nan, Hoo-pih,
and Sze-chuen, is crossed by the thirtieth parallel of latitude. Chě-
keang is a fine alluvial country, intersected by numerous rivers and
canals, with a climate that corresponds pretty nearly with the same
latitude in the United States of America. The soil is manured with
mud, which is dug from the rivers, assisted with ashes or dung; and the
spaces between the trees are generally planted with millet, pulse, or other
articles of food. The time for pruning the young trees, so as to
producc fine leafy shoots, is at the commencement of the year. About
200
four eyes are left on every shoot, and care is taken that the branches
are properly thinned, with a view to giving plenty of light and air to
the leaves. In gathering these, they make use of steps, or a ladder,
with a prop, as the young trees cannot support a ladder, and would,
besides be injured in their branches by the use of one. The trees, with
their foliage, are carefully watched, and the mischiefs of insects pre-
vented by the use of various applications, among which are some
essential oils.
The young trees, of course, suffer by being stripped of their leaves,
which are the lungs of the plants, and this is an additional reason for
renewing them, after a certain time. They endeavour, in part, to coun-
teract the evil effect, by pruning and lopping the tree, so as to diminish
the wood when the leaves have been stripped, and, it is probable, that a
few leaves are left on. It is surprising, however, to observe how soon a
tree in those climates will recover its leaves in the summer or autumn,
after having been entirely stripped of them by a typhoon or hurricane.
Fresh plants are procured by cuttings or layers, or, sometimes, from seed.
When the trees grow too old for the production of the finest leaves, and
show a greater tendency to fruiting, they are either removed altogether, or
cut and managed so as to produce fresh and young branches. They ge-
nerally contrive to obtain three crops of young leaves during the season.
1032. Portrait of the Tae IIo-shang, (" harmony and elevation,") the
abbot or superior of the temple Hae-chwang sze, at Honan.
The rank of this distinguished Buddhist is indicated by the presence of
the Seth chang, a kind of official staff or crozier carried in the hand by
the head of the priests of this sect.
This truly amiable prelate was the personal friend of Mr. Dunn, and
contributed to the formation of this collection by his influence and exer-
tion in procuring various specimens of vertû from the interior of the
empire, into which, it is well known, the peculiar policy of the govern-
ment of China forbids all foreigners to enter.
1033. View of the Grand Canal, where it is divided by an embankment
from the lake Po-yang.
The imperial canal was principally constructed by Koblai-khan and
his immediate successors of the Yuen race, and extends from Tëen-tsin,

TC.
201
near Pekin, to Hangchow-foo in Chekeang, being about 600 gcogra-
phical miles, and is called by the Chinese, "Yun-ho," "The river for
the transportation of grain." It is said that 30,000 workmen were
employed for nearly fifty years in its construction.
For the internal commerce of the empire, the Chinese are rendered
almost wholly independent of coast navigation by their imperial canal,
which, in point of extent and magnitude of undertaking, is, as well as the
great wall, unrivalled by any other work of the kind in the whole world,
The canal is navigable for large boats, and it is forty day's journey in
length. When the ships arrive at the sluices, they are raised up, what-
ever be their size, by means of machines, and they are then let down on
the other side into the water, having no locks.
One principal merit of this great work observes Mr. Davis, is its
acting as a drain to the swampy country through which it flows, from
Teen-tsin to the Yangtsze-keang. Being carried through the lowest
levels, and communicating with the neighbouring tracts by flood gates,
it has rendered available much that would otherwise be an irreclaimable
swamp.
As it is, however, some individuals of the embassy, in passing through
this desolate flat in 1816, were laid up with intermittents of rather a
malignant character.
The large city of Hwae-gan-foo, near the Yellow river, extends for
about three miles very much below the level of the canal.
In passing along its dilapidated walls, upon which we looked down
from our boats, it was impossible not to shudder at the idea of any
accident occurring to the banks of the canal, as the total destruction of
the town must be certain. Near this point resides the Ho-tsung or
surveyor-general of the river, who has charge of its banks.
1034.
Stands, with fruit, flowers, &c., on rice paper.
1035. Six drawings of native boats on rice paper.
In the lower right hand section of this frame is represented, a “duck
boat," locally so called. Immense quantities of domesticated ducks are
reared by the Chinese, particularly those who live on the rivers. They
hold the same rank in the winged race, that the pig occupies among
quadrupeds. The particular kind of boat appropriated to duck rearing
202
in China, has a broad platform projecting over the water for the use
of the birds, who are also honored with the most roomy apartments
within the boat itself. During the day they are allowed to have their
freedom on shore, seeking their food; but they are trained to obey
the call of a whistle, that when at evening the signal is sounded, they
instantly hasten back from their wanderings.
1036. Landscape with summer-houses.
1037 & 1038. Two drawings of the interior of gentlemen's summer
residences in China.
1039. Twelve varieties in Chinese ornithology, beautifully painted on
rice paper.
The pithy substance known in England by the term rice paper,
having the appearance of white velvet, is obtained from a malvace-
ous plant. In the preparation for use, the stem of the plant is cut
into small pieces in a circular manner, and the cylinder rolled out and
flattened into squares.
The chief use to which it is applied, is in
making artificial flowers; pillows are made of it, and of the cuttings,
soles of shoes, on account of its lightness.
1040 & 1044. Furniture and stands, &c.
1011. Native map of China.
The Chinese, unassisted by foreigners, have done very little in the
study of geography, or, as they term it," the records of the earth's prin-
ciples."
Nor have they made much use of the knowledge brought
from abroad upon this subject. Geography is not with them regarded
as a branch of education; and only a few, even of their literati, understand
the first principles of the science.
1042.
View of the city of Canton.
A glance at this production will correct a prevalent error respecting
the inability of Chinese painters to produce perspective. Though light
and shade are certainly a good deal neglected here, and the perspective
is not perfect, yet the picture is by no means deficient in this respect;
and the drawings of individual objects are extremely accurate. The
point from which the view has been taken is the bank of the river
opposite Canton, directly in front of the foreign factories, which occupy
about one-half the canvass. The scene, particularly upon the surface of
203
the intervening river, is altogether novel, and highly characteristic. The
national boats, of which there is a very great variety, have all their
representatives here, from the gaudy flower barge, in which large parties
are borne gaily over the waters, to the tiny sanpan, whose contracted
dimensions will admit only a single navigator. This part of the view is
peculiarly animated and interesting, The foreign factories occupy the
centre of the picture, and the English, French, and American ensigns
float above them. On each side of these is a view of a small portion
of Canton bordering upon the river; but as the city is built upon low
and flat ground, almost the whole of it is invisible from our present
point of observation.
Canton stands upon the north bank of the Chookeang or Pearl
river about sixty miles inland from the " great sea." It is one of the
oldest cities in the southern provinces, and second in importance to no
other in the empire, except Pekin, where the emperor holds his court.
It is the great commercial emporium of China, and the only port where
foreign trade is permitted. It is not very large in extent, the whole
circuit of the walls not exceeding probably six miles; but it is densely
peopled, and the suburbs, including the river population, contain as
many inhabitants as the city proper.
The streets of Canton are very numerous, being more than six hundred.
Their names sound oddly to us, and have rather an ambitious air.
Dragon-street," Flying-dragon-street," "Martial-dragon-street,"
Flower-street," Golden-street," "Golden-flower-street," &c., are
high-sounding enough; but some of them, it is said, have names which
would hardly bear to be translated for "ears polite." The Rev. Mr.
Bridgman states that they vary in width from two to sixteen feet, and
gives it as his opinion that the general average is from six to eight feet.
Mr. Dunn thinks this an over estimate by one or two feet. They are
all paved with large flag stones, chiefly granite. Wheel carriages are
seldom used. Those who can afford to ride are borne in sedan chairs on
the shoulders of coolies, and all heavy burdens are carried by porters.
The streets are generally crowded, and present a busy, bustling,
animated appearance. They all have gates at each end, which are
closed at night, and guarded by a sentinel.
201
The houses are but one story high. A few of them are of wood or
stone; many, belonging to the poorer classes, of mud, and with but a
single apartment; but the largest portion of bricks. The dwellings of
those in easy circumstances contain various well-furnished apartments,
the walls of which are generally ornamented with carving, pictures, and
various scrolls, inscribed with moral maxims from Confucius and other
sages. The houses of the wealthy are often furnished in a style
of great magnificence, and the occupants indulge in the most luxurious
habits. Official personages, however, for the most part set a com-
mendable example of simplicity and economy in their manner of
living. The doors have no plates to tell who the occupant of the man-
sion is, but cylindrical lanterns are hung up by the sides of the gates of
all houses of consequence, with the names and titles of the owners
inscribed, so as to be read either by day or at night, when the lanterns
are lighted.
Canton is a large manufacturing as well as commercial city, about
one half of the population reside without the walls, and with whom
foreigners have free intercourse. Mr. Brigman informs us that there
are no less than 17,000 persons engaged in weaving silk, and 50,000 in
manufacturing cloth of all kinds; that there are 4,200 shoemakers; and
what will surprise some readers, that there is an army of barbers amount-
ing to 7,300! The important office of tonsor can be held only by license
of government. Why the number is so great, has already been explained.
The manufacture of books is extensively carried on in this city, but we
“Those likewise," says
are not in possession of the exact statistics.
Bridgman, "who work in wood, brass, iron, stone, and various other
materials, are numerous; and they who engage in each of these
respective occupations, form, to a certain degree, a separate com-
munity, and have each their own laws and rules for the regulation of
their business."
а
But operatives and tradesmen are very much in the habit of herding
together. Entire streets are devoted to the same kind of business.
There is even a street occupied almost exclusively by Druggists,
Doctor-street.”
and is thence called by the Fan-kweis,
signs, gaily painted and lettered on each side, and hung out like
The

T-CILKSE
205
tavern signs among us, give the business streets a lively and brilliant
appearance.
The population of Canton is a difficult subject. No certain data exists
for an accurate estimate. The author above quoted enters into con-
jectures and calculations, which give him a result of nearly a million and
a quarter, including the suburbs and river. It seems probable that this
estimate is somewhat under the mark. The river population is an in-
teresting subject, to which we have already alluded. Besides Canton,
there are two other large cities in China, namely, Pekin the capital, and
Nankin (the ancient capital.) The population of Canton, including
the village of Fo-shan, where the chief manufactures are carried on,
and which may be termed the Manchester of China, is variously
estimated, at from 1,000,000 to 2,000,000; Pekin contains from
2,000,000 to 3,000,000; and the population of Nankin is now reduced
to 800,000-
The police of Canton is vigilant and very efficient. Besides
those who act in the capacity of constables, thief-takers, and jailers,
and constitute the regular police, there are many neighbourhoods, as
well as private individuals, that make arrangements for a constant
nocturnal watch. During the night, almost all the streets of the city are
shut up by gates at each end; near one of which there is usually
a guard-house. The night-watches are distinguished by bells, or some
similar instruments, kept by the watchmen. In the winter months,
when there is great danger from fire as well as thieves, watch-towers are
built on bamboo poles, high above the roofs of the houses-thus con-
stituting a double watch. When thieves are discovered, or when a fire
breaks out in any part of the city, the alarm, by means of the watchmen,
spreads quickly from one extremity of the city to the other. When
riotous assemblies collect in the streets, they are, in most cases, speedily
dissolved by a vigorous application of the bamboo or whip.
A singular punishment is often inflicted on persons guilty of petty
thefts and other misdemeanours, and may frequently be witnessed in the
streets of Canton. Two small flags are prepared, having shafts about a
foot long, which are thrust into or pierced through the ears, one on each
side of the head; in this condition, with his hands chained behind him,
206
the delinquent is led through the streets, one soldier going before him
beating a gong, and another following him with a rattan, which is
smartly applied to the criminals naked back. Many, doubtless, "shove
by justice," and to the day of their death go unpunished; yet the
number who are arrested and brought to trial, annually, is very
great. So summary is the mode in which the objects of the police
are effected, that it is no light matter to be once in their hands.
The Chinese emphatically express their sense of this unfortunate con-
dition, by the popular phrase, The meat is on the chopping block."
When a prisoner is sentenced to death, or to be transported, he must,
according to a particular law, have his case stated to him, so that he may
either confess or dispute it; and his kindred within 300 le, must be
summoned to attend.
Not unfrequently, in minor cases, a man receives the punishment and
again goes free, the same hour in which he commits the crime. The forms
of trial are simple. There is no jury, no pleading. The criminal kneels
before the magistrate, who hears the witnesses and passes sentence; he
is then remanded to prison, or sent to the place of execution. Seldom
is he acquitted. When witnesses are wanting, he is sometimes tortured
until he gives evidence against himself. There are four jails in
Canton, which together contain several hundred prisoners. The jail is
commonly called te-yůh, hell, or literally, "earth's prison." All capital
offenders suffer without the southern gates, near the river.
die there annually.
Hundreds
Prison discipline in China is in a very low state, the condition of
the prisons wretched in the extreme, and the abuses enormous. The
regulations for the management of prisons are often allowed to remain
dormant, and the sufferings of the inmates are horrible beyond descrip-
tion.
Ordinarily, provincial authorities, after reporting a criminal case to the
throne, must wait for the imperial rescript before proceeding to inflict
capital punishment. In certain cases however, these formalities are
dispensed with, and a criminal is led away to execution in a few hours
after his apprehension. For this end, there is lodged with the Foo-yuen,
or lieutenant governor of cach province, a symbol of authority, called
207
wang ming.* The criminal being judged and sentenced, the presiding
officer, even if it be the Foo-yuen himself, goes in state, and, with
prescribed formalities, requests the delivery of the wang ming; and being
taken from the place where it is kept deposited, it is borne with great
pomp and solemnity before the criminal to the fatal spot, where in its
presence the victim kneels toward the emperor's palace, and by a single
stroke of the executioner's sword expires in the attitude of giving thanks
to him for the dispensation of justice!
1043. Flowers, on rice paper.
1045. Representation of the Feast of Lanterns, by moonlight.
This truly brilliant spectacle is annually observed on the 15th day
of the first moon, throughout the whole extent of "The Great and
Pure Empire," and is intended to propitiate the auspicious opening
of the New Year. It is a grand display of an infinite variety of lanterns
of every conceivable shape and construction; they are made of silk,
paper, mica, horn, glass, and pearl shell; some with very curious
moving figures revolving round the faint light that burns within them.
Upon this occasion, the houses, roofs, and boats, are illuminated, and
many thousands of singular devices are seen floating upon the surface
of the water, giving the appearance of a river on fire. High poles
are erected, from the tops of which are suspended strings of lanterns of
variegated colours. Each person has a lantern in his hand, and the
whole scene is accompanied with the sounding of gongs, the beating of
drums, and the discharge of crackers and other fireworks, for the manu-
facture of which the Chinese are so famous.
In the peculiar and happy taste which the Chinese display in the con-
struction of lanterns, must be enumerated the frequent representation, on
these occasions, of an enormous dragon, constructed of a frame-work of
bamboo, and covered with paper fancifully painted. The monster, illu-
minated within, is borne along by a row of men, who, move in fantastic
evolutions, to represent the contortions and writhings of the supposed
animal. The terrific and horned head, staring eyes, and wide-spreading
jaws, glare fiercely upon the crowd as it passes by in a capering and
* Literally" king's order,” equivalent to death warrant, and is often so trans-
lated.
208
winding motion. This monster is accompanied by numerous fish, simi-
larly constructed and illuminated, of large dimensions, and well executed.
The visitor will observe a specimen of the latter in the collection.
At nearly all the festivals observed by the Chinese a profusion of
fireworks are exhibited. Their proficiency in the pyrotechnic art was
lately displayed at Canton on the temporary cessation of hostilities. A
representation was made of an immense vine arbour, which burned
without consuming;-the trunk, branches, leaves, and fruit appeared in
their natural colours, with, occasionally, butterflies apparently flitting
among the branches. To this succeeded an immense number of rockets
which formed themselves into innumerable stars, serpents, comets, and
flying dragons. This magnificent display was followed by a grand
discharge on all sides of a shower of fire, with which were intermixed
variegated lanterns, some with sentences written on them,-together
with figures of fruit, flowers, fans, &c. Then ascended a display of
columns formed by rings of light, which lasted a few minutes and was
unequalled in brilliancy by any previous device. At last the grand finale
took place; the Chinese dragon of an immense size, appeared in all his
majesty, surrounded by ten thousand winged reptiles, standards, and
banners, when in an instant appeared upon the back of the monster, the
figure of the Emperor, in blue lights. These successively changed to
yellow, and lastly to the most intense white. A deafening report now
rent the air, while a green veil arose over the Emperor, from the midst
of which a volcano of rockets ascended.
By an ingenious contrivance, figures of boats, made of paper, are
capable of floating and moving upon the water, by means of a stream
of fire issuing from the stern.
1046.
Flowers.
1047. Six paintings of boats, on rice paper.
1048. Portrait of Taou-Kwang, the reigning emperor of China, in
state costume; on the opposite side is a corresponding portrait of his late
consort. The emperor Taou-Kwang, is a son of the late emperor
Kea-King: born on the 10th of the 8th moon, 1781; and succeded his
father on the 24th August, 1820, in the 39th year of his age.
Taou-Kwang ("Reason's Glory,") is the Kwŏhaou, or title of the
209
reigning emperor, assumed by him on ascending the throne of China, in
compliance with an ancient custom of selecting an imperial title corres-
ponding with the prominent sentiments of his mind, and characteristic
of his future reign; hence the above designation intimates that during his
government the principles of reason and rectitude should be pre-eminently
illustrious.
In figure Taou-Kwang is said to be tall, thin, and of a dark com-
plexion. He is of a generous disposition, diligent, attentive to govern-
ment, and economical in his expenditure. He has also avoided, through
life, the vices to which his father and younger brothers were ad-
dicted.
Though the succession to the throne of China," observed Padre
Serra, depends on the arbitrary nomination of the reigning prince, this
does not always prevent usurpations. An instance of this was seen in the
succession of Yung-ching to his father, the great Kâng-he. The
prince nominated was the fourth; but this latter being in Tartary at the
period of the emperor's somewhat sudden demise, Yung-ching, who
was a privileged wâng (or regulus,) entered the palace and seized the
billet of nomination. Before the number four, which he there found, he
boldly set the sign of ten, and thus made it appear that he, the fourteenth
prince, was the one nominated. He possessed himself of the sceptre,
and ordered his brother to be arrested and imprisoned in a place which
is standing to this day, four leagues to the north of Pekin, in which it
is said that he died."
On the 18th October 1813, as the last emperor, Kea-king, was about
to enter Pekin, on his return from the summer excursion to Je-ho, (the
hot springs, about one hundred miles north east of the capital,) a party
of conspirators entered the imperial palace, and kept possession of it for
some time. The present emperor, who was his second son, is said
to have owed his elevation to the good conduct he displayed on this
occasion.
He shot two of the rebels, and assisted to intimidate the remainder of
those who had penetrated within the precincts of the palace. The most
disgraceful act of his administration was the murder, in 1828, of the
210
Mahomedan Tartar prince Jehanghir, who had surrendered himself, in
reliance on the faith of promises made to him.
1049. Portrait of Houqua, principal of the Co-Hong.
The word Hong (mandarin dialect, Hang) in Chinese, denotes a large
factory or mercantile building; and Hong merchant, in common use in
the interior, means much the same as wholesale merchant," in contra-
distinction from those " merchants," as the Scotch call them, who keep
shops only. But the Hong merchants here referred to, are a licensed
company of wholesale merchants, authorised to deal exclusively with the
foreigners of Europe and America, and from the ports of Asia; or the
foreigners who come from " beyond seas" to the port of Canton; and
hence the proper appellation, Yang-hang-shang; i. e. "sea or ocean
wholesale merchants."
1050. Mandarin on horseback, bearing despatches from the emperor.
The tardy movement of the officer here represented, contrasts
strongly with the pompous title of the imperial edicts, which
are said to be “luminous and swift as the rays of light.”
The ordinary rate of despatches is 150 le* per day; in cases of great
moment they are called "fire despatches," and are carried 300 le per
day, arriving in Canton from the capital in twelve or thirteen days.
express office" is supplied with a large number of couriers,
ready at all times for dispatch.
The "
There is no public post in China except for the use of the government,
but there are numbers of well known and trustworthy persons who are
employed as letter carriers between towns and villages, and who thus
supply the absence of a regular post. There are sometimes places
appointed where letters can be left for the postman, and he is not
unfrequently seen with a letter bag on his back marked with the place of
his destination, passing through the street and calling for letters. The
charge for postage is light; between Canton and Macao, a distance of
about 70 miles, it will average for single letters about thirty cash, (or
three half-pence.)
* In statistical accounts of the Empire, the relative distance of places is calculated
in Le, 250 of which make a geographical degrec.
211
The envelope containing the official document, as here represented,
is of the imperial yellow.
Colours in China," observes Mr. Kidd, are emblematical of rank,
authority, virtues and vices, joys, and sorrows.
Yellow is the imperial colour, assumed only by his majesty and his
sons, or the lineal descendants of his family, who may wear a golden
yellow sash and a yellow bridle.
Purple is prescribed, by the laws of the Board of Rites, for grand-
sons.
Green or blue for the chairs of the princesses. Green is the colour of
the painted board carried before a criminal going to execution, on which
the authority for his punishment is inscribed.
The Blue indicates official rank of third or fourth degree.
Red is a symbol of virtue, especially of truth and sincerity; hence, to
say a person has a red heart, means that he is without guile; this is also
the colour of the button of the first degree of official rank. The emperor
writes his special edicts in vermillion. Proclamations offering rewards for
the apprehension of offenders, are designated" the red flower," because
voluntary services are sometimes rewarded by decorating the head with
a flower of this colour.
Black denotes guilt and vice; hence, to say that a man
heart,” is a contumelious expression for depravity.
<<
has a black
White, as among the ancient Hebrews, is used in mourning, and to
denote moral purity; a white button also indicates official rank of a lower
degree."
1051 & 1052. Flowers.
1053 & 1054. Baskets of flowers beautifully painted.
1055.
Portrait of Shonshing, an eminent merchant of Canton.
1056. View of Golden Island in the Yang-tsze Keang, which, is the
largest river in China, and runs a course of 3,290 miles.
Its name denotes the Son of the Sea." It bears about the same
proportion to the Thames, that the territory of China bears to that of
England and Scotland. The next great Chinese river in magnitude, is
the "Hwang-ho," which is 3,040 miles in length. This beautiful
0 2
212
island described so many centuries since by Marco Polo, is surmounted
by numerous temples, inhabited by the votaries of Buddha.
1057.
Lady of rank, with small feet.
1058. Lady in walking dress, with small feet.
1059. Lady's boudoir and bedroom.
1060.
Ladies at play.
1061 to 1064. Beautiful specimens of painting on glass.
1065 & 1066. Two river views.
1067 & 1068. Mandarins and ladies superbly dressed, painted on rice
paper.
1069 & 1070. Two drawings of the interior of gentlemen's residences
in China.
1071. Variety of birds, &c. on rice paper.
1072 & 1073. Baskets of flowers.
1074. Imperial chair of state, with screen, &c. The emperor's throne
is called “the dragon's seat," and on state occasions in the
hall of audience is always placed facing the South.
1075. Two mandarins and ladies.
1076.
Mandarin of the first class, and wife, in full costume.
1077. Interior of temple.
1078. Outbuilding of Buddha temple at Honan, in which domestic
animals are kept; as pigs, fowls, ducks, and geese, agreeably
to the leading doctrines of the sect,—that no animal should
be deprived of life. The devout send these animals to the
temple, where they make or pay vows, to obtain favours from
superior beings, or return thanks for those received.
Furniture.
1079.
1080 & 1081. Flowers.
1082.
1083.
Furniture.
Four drawings on rice paper, representing mandarins and their
ladies.
1084. Tartar warrior and lady, richly dressed in winter costume. In
the latter person will be observed the absence of small feet,
which, in a Chinese lady of the same high rank, would have
213
been an indispensable accompaniment. The sharp pointed
boots of the officer denote him to be a military man; the
luxury of square toes, as elsewhere remarked, are denied to
the soldier.
1085 & 1086.
Stands with ornaments, flowers, fruits, &c.
1087. A river scene and bridge.
1088.
1089.
River view, with fort in the distance.
Mandarins and ladies.
1090. View of Whampoa Reach and Village.
eminence.
The point from which this view is taken, is French island, a small
portion of which appears in the foreground. Supposing the visitor
to occupy this position, immediately before him is Whampoa Reach, in
which several foreign vessels are riding at anchor, and Whampoa
island, with its walled town, plantations of rice, sugar-canes, &c., its
orange groves, and picturesque and lofty pagoda crowning a distant
Beyond appear the winding channel called Junk River, the
level coast, and the far-off mountains, that swell out, in undulating out-
line, to the northward of Canton. The view represented in this picture
is extensive and beautiful, and the execution of the painting is creditable
to the skill of the artist. In the small town before us, the visitor will
perceive one or more square buildings, higher than the surrounding
dwellings. These are government storehouses for the reception of their
staple commodity, rice. The government of China, with a liberal policy
and benevolent feeling for its millions of subjects, provides for any
sudden or accidental failing of the crops, by the establishment of
public granaries in each province, under the controul of certain officers,
whose duty it is, during a time of plenty, to purchase at the government
cost, large supplies of rice, to be distributed to the poor at such prices as
circumstances may require. If the grain of the following year should
amount to an average crop, the stock on hand is sold at a price a little
lower than the first cost; if the supply should be considerably short of
the demand, it is then sold to the poor at reduced prices; but if the
famine should be severe, it is then supplied to the sufferers gratuitously.
All persons are strictly prohibited by the government from hoarding
grain. Public granaries seem to have existed in China from time im-
214
memorial, and they have assumed a variety of forms. Among the Chinese,
the practice of storing grain in the earth has long since ceased.
Whampoa Reach, the southern channel, is the anchorage of all foreign
shipping. It is twelve miles from Canton. The cargoes imported
are here unladen, and taken up to the factories in a kind of lighter,
called "chops;" and whatever is to be exported is brought down in the
same way.
1091.
River view, with "chop-house," for the examination of pass-
ports and official documents.
1092. Water view, with bridge.
1093. Furniture and maxims.
1094 & 1095. Ornamental stands, flowers, &c.
1096.
Couch, fruit stand, &c.
1097. Two mandarins, with ladies.
1098. Tartar bearing the joo-ee. Mandarin and lady in state chairs with
beautiful screens.
1099 & 1100. Two interior views of temples.
1101. Furniture.
1102 & 1103. Baskets of flowers.
1104.
Furniture.
1105. Mandarins and their wives in splendid costumes.
1106. Tartar warrior, fully equipped, with a lady richly dressed. The
latter is sitting on a rock-like stool, cross-legged, a customary
mode with the Tartars.
1107. Stands with ornaments.
1108.
Stands with ornaments and fruits.
1109 & 1110. Two river scenes.
1111 & 1113. Two winter views in the north of China.
1112. View on Lob creek, near Whampoa.
1114. Representation of an inundation of rice grounds.
The frequent inundations that occur in the low grounds of China
may be attributed in part to the imperfect mode in which the banks
of many of their canals are constructed; being nothing more sub-
stantial than an embankment of soft mud, intermixed with layers of
rushes.
215
The following interesting account of the Chinese deluge, which oc-
curred in the reign of the ancient Emperor Yaou, is translated from the
Shoo-king, and is here introduced from Professor Kidd's late work
on China. According to the Chinese system of chronology, it happened
in the year of the world seventeen hundred and thirteen, which is only
fifty-seven years later than the generally received date of the deluge of
Moses.
The Emperor Yaou said-" Vast and destructive are the accumulat-
ing waters, which have overflowed their banks, rise so high as to cover
the hills and overtop the loftiest mountains, while they are co-exten-
sive with the spacious concave of heaven. Alas! for the mass of the
people; who shall relieve them from their calamities?
"All replied, 'Behold, Kwan !'´Ah, no; it cannot be;' answered
his majesty; he opposes the commands of his superiors, and subverts
the nine classes of kindred.' It was remarked by the ministers, ‘That
is doubtful, try him; perhaps he may succeed.' The emperor said
'Let him go then; but be cautious!' He was engaged nine years with-
out accomplishing his task, and eventually atoned for the failure by his
death. Yu, his son, was next employed, who perfected the great work
of removing the flood, and restoring order to the empire.
The following dialogue on the subject of his labours, occurred between
Yu and his sovereign. The Emperor says, Approach the imperial
presence, you have abundant communications to make.' Yu worshipped,
and said,‘May it please your majesty, how can I speak?' My thoughts
were unweariedly and incessantly employed day by day. The deluge
rose high, and spread wide as the spacious vault of heaven; buried the
hills and covered the mountains with its waters, into which the common
people, astonished to stupefaction, sunk. I travelled on dry land in a
chariot, on water in a boat, in miry places on a sledge, and climbed
the sides of hills by means of spikes in my shoes. I went from moun-
tain to mountain felling trees; fed the people with raw food; formed
a passage for the waters to the sea on every part of the empire, by
cutting nine distinct beds and preparing channels to conduct them to the
rivers. The waters having subsided, I taught the people to plough and
sow, who, while the devastating effects of the flood continued, were con-
216
strained to eat uncooked food. I urged them to barter such things as
they could spare, for others, of which they stood in need. In this way
the people were fed, and ten thousand provinces restored to order and
prosperity."
1115. Chinese pleasure grounds.
1116 to 1119. Four views, representing a funeral procession. The
visitor will observe that the bier is carried in the rear, con-
trary to the practice with us. The cemetery, which will be
found in the distance, is invariably on the south side of a hill,
too barren for cultivation.
Mr. Davis remarks-" When a parent or elder relation among the
Chinese dies, the event is formally announced to all the branches of
the family; each side of the doors is distinguished by labels, in
white, which is the mourning colour. Wealthy families place a board
at the door, on which is written, the title, age, &c. of the deceased.
The lineal descendants of the deceased, clothed in coarse white cloth,
with bandages of the same round their heads, sit weeping round.
the corpse on the ground, the women keeping up a dismal howl
after the manner of the Irish. In the meantime the friends of
the deceased appear with white coverlets of linen or silk, which
are placed on the body; the eldest son, or next lineal male descend-
ant, supported on each side by relations, and bearing in his hand
a porcelain bowl, containing two copper coins, now proceeds to
the river, or the nearest well, or the wet ditch of the city, to "buy
water," as it is termed. The ceremony must be performed by the
eldest son's son, in preference to the second son, and entitles him to a
double share of the property, which, in other respects, is divided
equally amongst the sons. The form of washing the face and body with
this water being completed, the deceased is dressed as in life, and laid
in a coffin, of which the planks are from four to six inches in thickness,
and the bottom strewed with quick-lime. On being closed, it is made
air-tight by cement, being, besides, varnished on the inside and outside.
A tablet is then placed on it, bearing the name and titles of the de-
ceased, as they are afterwards to be cut on the tomb, thus :-
217
A FATHER'S TABLET.
Emperor
Ts'ing (Dynasty)
The Illustrious Dead
Finished His State of Trial.
Name
K'HE,
CHANG, (Surname.)
Chaou
Mr's,
Spirit's
Tablet.
The tomb-stone has generally the same characters written on it. The
Father's would read thus in English :
The tomb-stone of Mr. Chaou-k'e-chang; the deceased, who
shone illustriously in his day, finished his state of probation during the
dynasty Ts'ing."
The Mother's thus," The tomb-stone of Mrs. Chaou, whose maiden
name was Le. The companion of her husband, and pattern of his
virtues. Died during the dynasty Ts'ing."
On the expiration of "thrice seven," or twenty-one days, the funeral
procession takes place, attended by the children, wife, concubines and
friends. The relations weep aloud. The tablet being conveyed in a
gilded sedan or pavilion, with incense and offerings before it, is placed at
the head of the grave, oblations offered, and prostrations performed. It
is accompanied by music, closely resembling the Scottish bagpipe, with
the continual repetition of three successive strokes on the drum. The
children and relations of both sexes follow in white, without much order
or regularity, and, upon reaching the grave, the ceremonies and oblations
commence. It being a part of their superstition, that money and garments
218
must be burnt, for the use of the deceased in the world of spirits, these
are, with a wise economy, represented by paper. Presents are made
by the friends of the family, to defray the expenses incurred in the
burial. On the envelope is written these words-' Respectful contri-
bution to the coffining:' which are sent to the person who presides at
the funeral. This appears to be an universal practice.
'After the tablet of the deceased has been brought back in
procession, if the family be rich, it is placed in the Hall of an-
cestors;' if poor, in some part of the house, with incense before it.
Two periods in every year (the spring and autumn), are fixed for per-
forming the rites to the dead, but the first is the principal period, and
the only one commonly attended to. Unlike the generality of Chinese
festivals, which are regulated by the moon, (and, therefore, moveable,)
this is determined by the sun, and occurs annually 105 days after the
solstice, i. e. the 5th of April. About that time, (for a day or two,
before or after, does not signify to them,) the whole population of the
town is seen trooping out, in parties, to the hills, to repair and sweep
the tombs, and make offerings, consisting of rice, fowls, and some-
times a large roasted pig is presented at the tomb; a libation of wine
and spirits is poured out upon the ground, and prayers are repeated by
the sacrificer, who kneels upon a mat and touches the ground with his
head. On their return home; they leave behind them long streamers of
red and white paper, to mark the fulfilment of their rites. Whole
ranges of hills, sprinkled with tombs, may, at that season, be seen
covered with these testimonials of attention to the departed, fluttering
in the wind and sunshine. Small mounds of earth may be observed
behind a grave, with a tablet having How-too-shin,' inscribed upon
it. This means a divinity, who is considered as a guardian of the tomb.”
After interment they bring home the tablet, and place before it whole
roasted pigs, three or five kinds of dressed animal food, fruits and pastry,
they again prostrate themselves; and for seven times seven days, at
morning and evening, present oblations and make prostrations.
The first seven days of mourning, are by some extended to seven
weeks; after which, other observances take place, when the spirit of the
deceased is supposed to return and visit an apartment of the house.
219
With the rich, the period of interment is sometimes deferred many years.
No corpse is ever allowed to be carried up a landing-place, or to pass
through a gateway which can in any way be construed as appertaining to
the emperor, on account of the supposed ill omen, concerning which the
Chinese are so particular as seldom even to mention death except by a
circumlocution, as "to become immortal," that is, in the modified sense
of the Buddhists.
The same feeling of dislike in the Chinese to the use of ill-omened
words, accustoms them to call a funeral " a white affair."
In high antiquity, straw was tied up and made to represent imper-
fectly, human beings, and so interred with the dead, as attendants upon
them.
In the middle age, as the Chinese say, that is, about the time of Con-
fucius, the Yùng, or more perfect representations of men were invented
and used. Confucius spoke against them, foreseeing that they would
lead to the use of living persons, for the same purpose. On the death
of Woo-kung, of the State Tsin, sixty-six persons were put to death in
order to be buried with him.
Muh-kung, had a hundred and seventy-seven common persons, and
three persons of note, put to death, to be interred with him. The She-
king contains an ode lamenting the fate of the three.
household women
After him, it still
150 years B. C. Che-hwang-te, ordered his
and domestics to be killed and buried with him.
remained a custom, and when voluntary, was thought nobly disinterested,
and therefore not prohibited.
Commentators condemn both those who required the practice, and
those who submitted to it.
The form of the tombs, whether large or small, is exactly that of a
Greek 2, which, if taken in the sense of the end," is an odd acci-
dental coincidence. Those of the rich and great are sometimes very
large, and contain a considerable quantity of masonry, with figures of
animals, in stone. The whole detail of sepulchral rites, with the sen-
timents of the Chinese concerning the dead, is contained in the drama
of An Heir in Old Age.'
220
PRAYER,
OFFERED AT AN ANCESTOR'S TOMB.
The following is the translation of a Sacrificial Prayer or TSE-WAN,
read at the Tomb of an Ancestor.
This thirteenth year of the reign of Taou-kwang, (1833,) the year
being KWEI-SZE, (the 30th year of the cycle,) in the 2nd month of the
spring, after the new moon, the 16th day, at the happy Tsing-ming-
term-propriety requires that the spring sacrifice should be offered, the
grass mowed down, and the brambles cut away.
Reverently have we prepared pigs, sheep, fowls, and fresh hams,
seasonable vegetables, fruits, incense, rich wines, gold, silver, and
precious things; (i. e. tinsel papers ;) and venture to announce the same
to the soul of our great PROGENITOR, the venerated Prince.
We
Behold! man has Progenitors and Parents, as water has springs, and
trees have roots. When the roots strike deep, the branches are abun-
dant; the foliage rich, and forests are formed. When springs of water
are large, and flow far, they enrich the soil, and diffuse fragrance.
look wishfully, and pray the souls in Hades to shelter and assist us, their
descendants; that we may be prosperous; may age after age be decked
with badges of honour; may long enjoy riches and rank; may, like the
melon creeper and the cotton fibre, be continually happy, and never
extinct; may, for myriads of ages, be illustrious spirits. Prostrate, we
pray you to come to enjoy and view these sacrifices. With sincerity
these prayers are offered up."
1120 to 1130. A series of drawings, in water colours, upon the leaves
of the Ficus Religiosa. In the preparations of the leaf for the
artist, every part is carefully removed but the fibre, which has
the appearance of gauze. In this state figures are painted on
them resembling some of their demi-gods. The leaves are
called poo-te-sha.
WR
4

A
GHE
KE
221
1131 & 1132. Stands, fruits, &c.
1133.
Furniture, &c.
1134. Two mandarins and ladies superbly dressed.
1135. Mandarin of the highest class, and lady, splendidly attired.
These, with the couple, (1084 & 1098) are Tartars also.
From the neck of the female is suspended a long kind of scarf
or handkerchief, customary with the Tartar ladies.
1136.
tlemen have a similar appendage at their girdle.
Painting on glass.
1137 & 1138. Exterior views of temples.
1139.
Furniture, maxims, &c.
Gen-
1140. Basket of flowers, the most prominent being the Mow-tan,
called by the Chinese Hwa-wang, "King of flowers."
Ornamental flowers, or ming hwa, are cultivated by the Chinese to such
an extent as fairly to indicate a general taste for flowers.
Ladies wear them in their hair, aud pots of the common sorts adorn
their door-ways or terraces; dwarf trees or shrubs are planted in the
inner court of the houses or temples, and flowers are sold in the streets,
in bouquets, festoons, and garlands, at all seasons.
Their floriculture is conducted with a success depending more on prac-
tice than the positive deductions of science, and confined to the most
popular favorites, as cammelias, chrysanthemums, peone (Mow-tan)
oranges, citrons, &c. in these, being all indigenous plants, they succeed
very well, and they have produced a great number of varieties. The
Fá-tee, or flower gardens near Canton afford a good idea of Chinese
floriculture, both useful and ornamental; and in number of species and
varieties it is probably not exceeded by any in the country, as the patro-
nage of foreign customers has drawn to it plants from all parts of
China.
1141. Basket of flowers.
1142. Chinese furniture.
1143.
1144.
Mandarins and ladies on rice paper.
Mandarin bearing the imperial dispatches, and lady.
1145. Paintings on glass.
1146 & 1147. Ornamental stands, vases, fruits, &c.
222
1148 & 1149. Two river scenes.
1150. The Ficus Religiosa, or Banian Tree, which sends down roots
from its branches, called by the Chinese "Půh sze můh," or
"The immortal tree."
"Branching so broad and long, that in the ground
The bended twigs take root, and daughters grow
About the mother tree, a pillar'd shade
High over-arch'd, and echoing walks between."
The roots or props, as they appear to be, occupy such a space of
ground, that one growing on the banks of the Nerbuddah covers an
almost incredible space.
The circumference which now remains (for much has been swept
away by the floods of the river) is nearly 2000 feet. The overhanging
branches, which have not yet thrown down their supports, overshadow
a much larger space: 200 large trunks are counted of this singular
tree, while the smaller ones exceed 3000; and each of them is con-
tinually sending forth branches and pendent roots, to form other trunks,
and becomes the parents of a future progeny.
The whole, according to Forbes's Oriental Memoirs, has been known
to shelter 7000 men beneath its wide-spread shade.
Gentlemen's summer retreat.
1151.
Winter piece.
1152.
Chinese landscape.
1153.
1154 to 1157.
Female pastimes.
1158 to 1161.
1162.
Specimens of Chinese fish, beautifully painted.
View of the interior of the Consoo House, with the court in
session, for the final decision of the charge of piracy committed
by the crew of a Chinese junk, on a French captain and sailors,
at a short distance from Macao.
The French ship Navigateur, put into Cochin-China in distress. Having
disposed of her to the government, the captain, with his crew, took
passage for Macao, in a Chinese junk, belonging to the province of
Fokien. Part of their valuables consisted of about 100,000 dollars in
specie. Four Chinese passengers bound for Macao, and one for Fŭh-këen,
223
were also on board. This last apprised the Frenchman, in the best way
he could, that the crew of the junk had entered into a conspiracy to take
their lives, and seize their treasure. He urged that an armed watch
should be kept. On making the Ladrone islands, the four Macao pas-
sengers left the junk. Here the Frenchmen believed themselves out of
danger, and, exhausted by sickness and long watching, yielded to a fatal
repose. They were all massacred but one, a youth of about nineteen
years of age, who escaped by leaping into the sea, after receiving several
wounds. A fishing boat picked him up, and landed him at Macao,
where information was given to the officers of government; and the
crew of the junk, with their ill-gotten gains, were seized on arriving at
their port of destination at Fuh-keen. Having been found guilty by the
court in their own district, they were sent down to Canton by order of
the emperor, to the gan chă sze, (criminal judge,) to be confronted with
the young French sailor. This trial is represented in the painting. The
prisoners were taken out of their cages, as seen in the fore-ground. The
Frenchman recognised seventeen out of the twenty-four, but when the
passenger who had been his friend was brought in, the two eagerly em-
braced each other, which scene is also portrayed in the painting. An
explanation of this extraordinary act was made to the judge, and
the man forthwith set at liberty. A purse was made up for him
by the Chinese and foreigners, and he was soon on his way home-
ward. The seventeen were decapitated in a few days, in the pre-
sence of the resident foreigners; the captain was put to a "lingering
death,”* the punishment of traitors; and the stolen treasures were
restored.
1163 & 1164.
Ornamental stands, vases, flowers, &c.
1165. Couch, fruit stand, &c.
1166. Fruit, flowers, &c. (tea plant.)
1167. Military officer and lady. A Chinese soldier wears his sword on
the left side, but he draws it with the right hand turned be-
hind him.
*The punishment of "a lingering death," or "cutting into ten thousand pieces,”
as it is termed by Europcans, is known to consist of a few mortal stabs 'and cuts,
after tying the criminal to a post.
224
1168. Portrait of a Chinese lady on glass.
1169 & 1170. Views of various buildings, in one of which are dwarf
trees, for which the Chinese are so celebrated.
Almost every garden in China abounds in flower-pots containing
stunted stems with miniature fruit, fully ripe.
1171 & 1172. Baskets of flowers, exquisitely coloured.
1173.
Furniture and stands, &c.
1174. Drawings of fruit and flowers.
1175. Nobleman and his wife in winter costume, the latter with a
hand furnace used in the north of China.
1176.
Flowers and insects, on white velvet.
1177 & 1178. Views of the exteriors of Buddha temples.
1179 & 1180. Paintings on "rice paper" representing the twelve
stages of the silk process, from the egg to the weaving of the
silk.
The same countenance and example which the emperor affords in per-
son to the production of the principal materials of food, as elsewhere
observed, are given by the empress to the cultivation of the mulberry and
the rearing of silk worms, the source whence they derive their chief
substance for clothing, and the care of which for the most part comes
under the female department. In the ninth moon, the empress proceeds
with the principal ladies to sacrifice at the altar of the inventor of the
silk manufacture; and when the ceremony is concluded, they collect a
quantity of the mulberry leaves, which are devoted to the nourishment
of the imperial depot of silk worms.
1181. View of an apartment in Mowqua's country seat.
1182.
Flowers.
1183. Table, Chinese candles, screen, &c.
1184. Exterior views of temples.
1185.
An out-building attached to the temple at Honan.
1186. View of an apartment in Mowqua's country seat, at Honan.
1187.
Flowers.
1188. Lady of rank in a sedan, carried by bearers.
1189. A mandarin in splendid costume.
1190. A lady of rank in a rich dress.
225
1191. Interior of the temple at Honan, with Buddha priests at
worship.
A description of this celebrated temple may prove interesting to the
reader. The exterior of this temple, as much venerated by the Chinese,
as that of Minerva was by the Athenians, or the edifice dedicated to
Jupiter Tonans by the people of Rome-is by no means remarkable in
appearance. It is spacious and lofty, and constructed after the manner
of other large Chinese buildings, with outer and inner courts, porticos
and passages, which conduct the followers of Buddha into the
sacred presence of their gods, "San paou Fůh,”
Buddhas," --the "past, present, and to come."
sented by colossal gilt statues, in a sitting posture, nearly twenty
feet in height, formed of clay and entirely covered with burnished
gold.
the three precious
These are repre-
The principal hall in which these are placed, is very large, and sup-
ported by vermilion-coloured pillars, between which are suspended
numerous lanterns-and on the shafts of two columns are inscriptions-
one denoting "the golden-coloured region;" the other, "the three pre-
cious Buddhas."
This temple is guarded from the intrusion of strangers, in the same
exclusive spirit that prompts the followers of the Prophet to deny
Christians admission into the mosques of St. Sophia and Omar. It is
with difficulty that foreigners can enter within these hallowed walls.
The privileged few who have succeeded in so doing, have described the
sudden impression made upon their minds by the giant idols, with
feelings of great surprise,-until the eye becoming accustomed to their
presence, they are very properly reduced by mental operation to their
true character—mere clay, false gods, and the senseless objects of an
absurd pagan worship. This is by no means a long process of the mind,
as the countenance of each idol is inexpressive of any particular emotion,
there is nothing to excite either terror or disgust. On looking round the
hall, the appearance of great numbers of Chinese priests standing at
equal distances from each other, attired in pontifical robes, and with
their hands clasped, in silent prayer and adoration, or chaunting
evening service, together with the soft and tender—or rather the "dim,
L
Р
226
religious light" of repose which fills the temple-is at once striking
and impressive.
In the principal temples, there is suspended from a wooden frame, a
large bell, on which the priests strike with a hammer, during the time of
offering their prayers, to note the intervals of worship, as well as to
arouse the attention of Buddha.
In a journal of a voyage along the coast of China by Mr. Gutzlaff in
1833, that gentleman speaks of a visit to a large establishment dedicated
to Fuh, the resort of numerous votaries from remote parts.
"The colossal figures were made of clay, and tolerably well gilt.
There were large drums and cylindrical bells in the temple, We were
present at the vespers of the priests, which they chanted in the Pâli
language, not unlike the latin service of the Romish Church. They
held their rosaries in their hands, which rested folded upon their breasts.
One of them had a small bell, by the tinkling of which their service was
regulated; and they occasionally beat the drum and large bell to rouse
Buddha's attention to their prayers.
The same words were a hundred times repeated. None of the offici-
ating persons showed any interest in the ceremony, for some were look-
ing around, laughing and joking, while others muttered their prayers.
The few people who were present, not to attend the worship, but to gaze
at us, did not seem in the least degree to feel the solemnity of the
service. Though the government sometimes decries Buddhism as a
dangerous doctrine, we saw papers on the walls, wherein the people were
exhorted to repair to these temples in order to induce Heaven to grant
a fertile spring; and these exhortations were issued by the Emperor
himself."
Of this "Jos-house," or Temple of the Buddha sect, the following is
the legend:-
"The Hae-Chung-sze," or Honan Jos-house, was originally a garden,
belonging to Ko-kea, the family of Ko. A priest, named Che-Yue, com-
menced a small temple to Buddha, some say about 800 years ago, under
the appellation Tseen-Tsew-Sze, "The temple of a thousand autumns.”
It remained an obscure place till the close of the late dynasty, about
the year A. D. 1600, when a priest of eminent devotion raised its
227
character; and his pupil, or disciple O-tsze, by his superior talents and
sanctity, together with a concurrence of extraordinary circumstances,
raised the temple to its present magnificence and extent.
During the reign of Kang-he, the second of the reigning Tartar
dynasty, A. D. 1700, Canton province was not fully subjugated; and a
son-in-law of the emperor's, entitled Ping-nan-wang, "king subjugator
of the South," reduced the whole to his father's sway, and took up his
head quarters, in the Honan temple, according to Tartar and Chinese
usage. There were thirteen villages on the island which he had orders
to exterminate for their opposition to the imperial forces.
Just before carrying into effect this command, the king, a blood-
thirsty man, cast his eyes on O-tsze, a fat happy priest, and remarked,
that if he lived on vegetable diet, (flesh being prohibited) he could not be
so fat-he must be a hypocrite, and should be punished with death.
He drew his sword to execute, with his own arm, the sentence, but his
arm suddenly stiffened, and he was stopped from his purpose. That
night a divine person appeared to him in a dream, and assured him
that O-tsze was a holy man, adding, "you must not unjustly kill
him."
Next morning the king presented himself before O-tsze, confessed
his crime, and his arm was immediately restored. He then did obeisance
to the priest, and took him for his preceptor and guide, and morning
and evening the king waited on the priest as his servant.
The thirteen villages now heard of this miracle, and solicited the
priest to intercede in their behalf, that they might be rescued from the
sentence of extermination. The priest interceded, and the king listened
to him, answering thus-"I have received an imperial order to exter-
minate these rebels; but since you, my master say they now submit,
be it so; however, I must send the troops round the country before I
can write to the emperor. I will do so, and then beg that they may
be spared." This proceeding took place, and Honan villages were
saved.
Their gratitude to the priest was unbounded; and estates, and in-
cense, and money, were poured in upon him. The king also persuaded
P 2
228
his officers to make donations to the temple, and it became affluent from
that day.
At that time there was no "Hall of the celestial Kings;" and at the
outer gate was a pond belonging to a rich man who refused to sell it,
although O-tsze offered him a large compensation. One day the king
was conversing with the priest, and said, "this temple still is deficient,
in having no hall for the celestial kings." The priest said, "A terrestial
king, please your majesty, is the proper person to rear a pavilion to the
celestial kings." The king took the hint, and immediately seized upon
the rich man's pond, who was now very glad to present it without any
compensation at all. The king commanded that the pavilion should be
finished in fifteen days: however, at the priest's intercession, the work-
men were allowed one month to complete it; and by working night and
day finished it in that time.
The queen, being the emperor's daughter, hoped she would be allowed
to build a palace, covered with green tiles; however, her father would
not permit her, and the tiles she had prepared were given to the Jos-
house, to cover one of its pavilions; and hence it is sometimes called
"the green-tiled temple."
It was in this temple or monastery, that Lord Amherst's embassy
lodged during his lordship's stay at Canton; and as Honan faces
Canton, on the opposite bank of the river, many Chinese gentlemen and
merchants retire thither to their country villas, after the business of the
day is over.
1192.
Various sea shells, found on the coast of China, showing their
molluscous inhabitants.
1193 & 1194. Interior of temples.
1195. Furniture and maxims.
1196.
Flowers and fruit. In the left hand lower division of this frame
is a drawing of a species of citron, called by the Chinese,
Fuh-show, the hand (of the god) Fůh.
The formation of this fruit is a curious result of horticultural ingenuity
practised by the Chinese. Mr. Davis remarks, that "so entirely is this
strange production the result of art operating on nature, that the fruit
does not appear a second time after the plant has been purchased.”
229
This is a favorite fruit with the Chinese on account of its agreeable
perfume, one specimen being sufficiently powerful when ripe to scent a
large room.
1197. Mandarin in a chair, with eight bearers, and other attendants.
1198. Warrior in full dress, with bow, quiver, &c.
1199. Mandarin of the imperial household.
1200.
Exterior of a Buddha temple at Honan.
1201. Painting on glass.
1202 & 1203. Exterior views of temples.
1204. Furniture, lamps, &c.
1205. Flowers and fruit.
1206. Lady of rank in palanquin, and bearers, &c.
1207.
Mandarin of the first class in fur dress.
1208. Lady in walking habit.
1209. Second gate to the temple at Honan.
1210. Portrait of a lady on glass.
1211 & 1212.
1213.
Exterior views of various buildings, showing the plans
and arrangements of the outer or fore court.
Cabinet, table, &c.
1214. The first of a series of twelve coloured drawings, representing the
tea culture in the district of Keang-nan, situated at the north-west
extremity of a range of hills dividing that province from Chě-keang,
between the 30th and 31st parallel of north latitude. This is a view of
the preparation of the ground for planting. The botanical name for tea is
Thea, and it is intimately allied to the genus Camellia, both of which
are called by the same general name of Cha among the Chinese. The
flowers of tea are inodorous, less showy than the Camellia, and the
plant is seldom cultivated merely for ornament, while its congener is
one of the favorite plants of gardeners at home and abroad.
For the information of the reader upon the subject of tea, we extract
the following from a work by John F. Davis, Esq., F.R.S., &c., late
Chief of the British Factory at Canton,-" The fineness and dearness
of tea are determined by the tenderness and smallness of the leaf
when picked. The various descriptions of the black diminish in
quality and value as they are gathered later in the season, until
230
they reach the lowest kind, called by us Bohea, and by the Chi-
nese (Ta-cha) “large tea," on account of the maturity and size of
the leaves. The early leaf buds in spring, being covered with a white
silky down, are gathered to make Pekoe, which is a corruption of the
Canton name, "Pak-hoo, white down.' A few days' longer growth
produce what is here styled, "black-leaved Pekoe." The more fleshy
and matured leaves constitute Souchong; as they grow larger and
coarser they form Congou; and the last and latest picking is Bohea.
The tea farmers, who are small proprietors or cultivators, give the tea a
rough preparation, and then take it to the contractors, whose business it
is to adapt its further preparation to the existing nature of the demand.
The different kinds of tea may be considered in the ascending scale of
their value.
1st. Bohea, which in England is the name of a quality, has been
already stated to be, in China, the name of a district where various
kinds of black tea are produced. The coarse leaf brought under that
name to this country, is distinguished by containing a larger proportion
of the woody fibre than any other teas; its infusion is of a darker colour,
and, as it has been longer subjected to the action of fire, it keeps a longer
time without becoming musty, than the finer sorts. Two kinds of Bohea
are brought from China: the lowest of these is manufactured on the
spot, and therefore called "Canton Bohea," being a mixture of refuse
Congou with a coarse tea called Woping, the growth of the province.
The better kind of Bohea comes from the district of that name in Fokien;
and, having been of late esteemed equally with the lower Congou teas,
has been packed in the same square chests, while the old Bohea package
is of an oblong shape.
2nd. Congou, the next higher kind, is named from a corruption of
the Chinese Kung-foo, "labour or assiduity." It formed for many
years the bulk of the East India Company's cargoes; but the quality
gradually fell off, in consequence of the partial abandonment of the old
system of annual contracts, by which the Chinese merchants were assured
of a remunerating price for the better sorts. The consumption of Bohea
in this country has of late years increased, to the diminution of Congou,
and the standard of the latter has been considerably lowered. A parti-
231
cular variety, called Campoi, is so styled from a corruption of the original
name, Keen-pei, "selection-choice;" but it has ceased to be prized
in this country, from the absence of strength-a characteristic which is
stated to be generally esteemed beyond delicacy or flavour.
3rd. Souchong (Seaou-chung), "small or scarce sort," is of the
finest of the stronger black teas, with a leaf that is generally entire and
Paou-
curly, but younger than in the coarser kinds. What is called
chung,"* or Padre Tea, is packed in separate paper bundles, of about
half a pound each, and is so fine as to be used almost exclusively for
presents. It takes its name of Paou (or parcel) from the packages in
which it is contained, and its other name of Padre, as having been
formerly grown by the priests at their small locations on the hills, and
given to the parties coming to worship. The finest kinds of Souchong
are sometimes scented with the flowers of the Cloranthus inconspicuus
and Gardenia florida; and they cannot be obtained even among the
Chinese, except at high prices. A highly crisped and curled leaf, called
Sonchi, has lately grown into disrepute, and been much disused, in
consequence of being often found to contain a ferruginous dust, which
was probably not intended as a fraud, but arose from the nature of the
ground where the tea had been carelessly and dirtily packed.
4th. Pekoe being composed mainly of the young spring buds, the
gathering of these must, of course, be injurious in some degree to the
future produce of the shrub; and this description of tea is accord-
ingly both dear and small in quantity. With a view to preserve the
fineness of flavour, the application of heat is very limited in drying the
leaves; and hence it is, that Pekoe is more liable to injury from keep-
ing than any other sort of tea. There is a species of Pekoe made in
the green tea country from the young buds, in like manner with the
black kind; but it is so little fired that the least damp spoils it; and for
this reason, as well as on account of its scarcity and high price, the
Hyson-pekoe, as some call it, has never been brought to England. The
mandarins send it in very small canisters to each other, or to their
friends, as presents.
*Paou significs parcel.
232
Green teas may generally be divided into five denominations, which
are, 1, Twankay; 2, Hyson-skin; 3, Hyson; 4, Gunpowder; 5,
Young Hyson. Twankay tea has always formed the bulk of the green
teas imported into this country, being used by the retailers to mix with
the fine kinds. The leaf is older, and not so much twisted or rolled as
in the dearer descriptions: there is altogether less care and trouble
bestowed on its preparation. It is, in fact, the Bohea of green teas;
and the quantity of it brought to England has fully equalled three-fourths
of the whole importation of green. Hyson-skin is so named from the
original Chinese term, in which the skin means the refuse, or inferior
portion of any thing; in allusion, perhaps, to the hide of an animal,
or the rind of fruit. In preparing the fine tea called Hyson, all those
leaves that are of a coarser, more yellow, and less twisted or rolled
appearance, are set apart and sold as the refuse or "skin tea," at a
much inferior price. The whole quantity, therefore, depends on, and
bears a proportion to, the whole quantity of Hyson manufactured, but
seldom exceeds two or three thousand chests in all. The word Hyson
is corrupted from the Chinese name, which signifies "flourishing
spring" this fine sort of tea being gathered in the early part of the
season. Every separate leaf is twisted and rolled by hand, and it
is on account of the extreme care and labour required in its preparation,
that the best Hyson tea is so difficult to procure, and so expensive.
By way of keeping up its quality, the East India Company used to give
a premium for the two best lots annually presented to them for selec
tion; and the tea merchants were stimulated to exertion, as much by
the credit of the thing, as by the actual gain in price. Gunpowder,
as it is called, consists of the best rolled and perfect leaves, which give
it that granular appearance whence it derives its name. For a similar
reason the Chinese call it Choo-cha, "pearl tea." Young Hyson,
until it was spoiled by the large demands of late years, was a genuine,
delicate, young leaf, called in the original language Yu-tsëen, "before
the rains." As it could not be fairly produced in any large quantities,
the call for a further supply was answered by cutting up and sifting
other green tea through sieves of a certain size; and, as the Company's
inspectors detected the imposture, it formed no part of their London
233
importations. But the above became still worse of late, for the coarsest
black tea leaves have been cut up, and then coloured with a preparation
resembling the hue of green teas.
Nothing could be more ill-founded than the vulgar notion, once
prevalent in this country, that the colour of green tea was derived from
its being dried on plates of copper. No Chinese is allowed to have
a copper vessel except as ornamental. Admitting that copper was
the metal on which it was placed, it does not at all follow that it
should assume such an appearance from the operation; but the pans
really used on these occasions are of cast-iron, of a round or spherical
shape. Each of these pans is bricked in, over a small furnace. A
quantity of fresh leaves are placed in the pan, after it has been suffi-
ciently heated, and stirred rapidly round by the hand, to expose them
equally to the action of the heat, and, at the same time, prevent their
burning. After being a little curled by this drying operation, they are
taken out and twisted or rolled by hand to assist the natural tendency;
and the process of curling is continued for a longer or shorter time
according to the nature and quality of the tea. The hand seems to
have most to do in the case of green teas, and the fire in that of the
black. In the preparation of the finer teas, much care and attention is
bestowed on the selection of the best leaves subsequent to drying;
as in the separation of the Hyson from its skin, or refuse-a business
which falls to the lot of women and children. The tea, when prepared,
is packed while warm by the contractors in chests and canisters. The
black teas are trodden down with the feet, to make them pack closer :
but the green tea leaves would be crushed and broken by so rude a
process; they are accordingly only shaken into chests.”
1215. Second view of the above tea process, representing labourers
sowing the seed.
1216. The Tsung-tuh, or Viceroy of Canton, in a sedan, with eight
bearers and retinue.
As before observed, the number of bearers to each sedan is regulated
by the rank of the person. Only mandarins, or official persons, can
be carried by four bearers, or accompanied by a train of attendants,
234
These are marshalled in two files before the chair.
One pair of these
myrmidons, carry gongs, on which they strike at regular intervals ;
another pair utter, likewise, at intervals, a long-drawn shout, or rather
yell, to denote the approach of the great man; a third pair carry
chains, (as in No. 1206,) which they jingle in concert, being, in fact,
jailers or executioners, with high caps of iron wire, in which is placed
a grey feather. Then come two fellows with the usual bamboo, or
bastinado; and the cortège is made up by the servants and other
followers, some of whom carry red umbrellas of dignity, others large
red boards, on which are inscribed, in gilt characters, the officer's
titles; and, generally, the motto addressed to the multitude, ´BE
STILL AND RETIRE BACK.' The populace, who meet such a procession,
are not to denote their respect in any other way than by standing
aside, with their arms hanging close to their sides, and their eyes on
the ground. It is only when called or taken before a tribunal that
they are obliged to kneel; and these are occasions which most Chinese
are not very willing to seek.
1217.
Furniture and maxims.
1218. A mandarin in splendid attire.
1219. A lady in splendid costume, with large feet.
1220. First gateway to the temple at Honan.
1221.
Painting on glass.
1222. View of a small Buddha temple.
1223. Exterior of a gentleman's private dwelling.
1224.
Furniture, &c.
1225. Third view of the Keang-nan tea process, representing the irri-
1226.
gation of the trees
Fourth view: women picking the leaves.
1227. Lady of rank in a sedan, and bearers.
1228.
Mandarin saluting.
1229. A Tartar lady in a summer dress.
1230.
Vessel in a typhoon, "ta fung," or "great wind."
Violent storms are of frequent occurrence during a particular season
of the year, on the southern coast of China, and occasion a dreadful
235
loss of life, besides injury to the boats of the many thousand families
who reside upon the neighbouring waters of Canton. Chinese writers
particularly mention a sea storm that blows from every point of the
compass on the coast of Canton. It occurs during the fifth and sixth
moons of the year, and is preceded by a coloured ring-like appearance,
at first small, but gradually increasing. This whirlwind is said to
be entirely unknown in the north of China. During the continuance
of these devastating storms, thunder is considered a symptom of the
mitigation of their fury. In the significant phraseology of the Chinese,
lightning is called "the thunderer's whip." The superstitious notions of
the Chinese have been elsewhere spoken of. If a person in China has
been killed by lightning, he is denied the rites of burial, which he
would otherwise have received. They consider it as a marked dis-
pleasure of God. Confucius always rose and dressed himself when
severe thunder storms occurred at night, in order to pay respect to
Teën-noo, "the wrath of heaven."
1231.
River view.
1232. Another view with a public building for the examination of
passports.
1233 to 1238. Six frames, containing numerous drawings of Chinese
fishes, taken from nature.
1239. Painting of a marriage procession.
In the gay scene here represented, the bridegroom is proceeding to
the house of the parents of his intended wife, accompanied with a large
and splendid procession enlivened by music, to fetch home his future
spouse. On their return to the residence of the bridegroom, the bride
is carried in a richly carved and gilded sedan appropriated to such
occasions, and called " Hwa-Keaou," i. e.
"flowered chair." The sup-
porters, in this case, (four in number,) are regulated according to the
rank of the parties. The bride is preceded by a lengthened train of
attendants, clad in garments of various colours, and accompanied with
music, lanterns, &c. There are not less than a dozen sedan chairs in
the procession filled with presents to the bride. These constitute her
whole marriage dowry. The persons composing the train are hired for
236
the occasion. There are large establishments in China, provided with
men, chairs, and dresses, to be hired out for escorts of this kind. The
dresses and sedans range through all the degrees of costliness and
elegance. Articles of this kind, more or less expensive, and a more or
less numerous train of attendants, are employed, according to the
rank and wealth of the parties to be united. Houqua, the rich Hong
merchant, expended above 50,000 dollars on a daughter's wedding,
including the bridal presents. Live geese are always among the
presents, and they are carried in the procession, being considered,
apparently without any good foundation, patterns of concord and
fidelity in the married state. The beautiful mandarin duck, already
described, would be a fitter emblem. When the bride reaches the resi-
dence of her lord, she is lifted by matrons over a pan of charcoal,— a
usage, the exact import of which is not understood. Various ceremo-
nies follow, which end in the husband unveiling his bride, whom he
now sees for the first time, and drinking with her the cup of alliance.
Marriage is termed "the excellent ceremony," and is promoted by every
consideration that can act upon the human mind. The national maxim
is, that “there are three great acts of disregard to parents, and to die
without progeny is the chief." The barrenness of a wife is therefore
regarded as a great calamity, and is one of the seven grounds of a divorce
allowed to a Chinese husband, notwithstanding there would seem to be
an all-sufficient remedy in legal concubinage. The six other causes of
separation are, disobedience to her parents,* adultery, TALKATIVENESS,
thieving, ill-temper, and inveterate infirmities.
There are also five things which prevent a woman from being taken
as a wife; if she belongs to a vicious family, a rebellious family, to one
whose members have suffered capitally, to one afflicted with inveterate
diseases, or if she be the eldest child and has no brother,—in these
several circumstances, according to the Chinese moralists, she is not to
be taken.
A lucky day for the marriage rites is considered important. On this
* In China, when a woman is married, she is compelled to regard the father and
mother of her husband, exactly in the light, in which she before regarded her own.
237
point, recourse is had to astrology, and the horoscopes of the parties are
diligently compared. Sometimes the ceremony is postponed for months,
because the stars are not propitious. They have a saying, that
riages are made (fixed) in a previous state of existence."
mar-
Such superstitious notions and observances belong exclusively to no
particular age or country. In the Iphigenia of Euripides, Clytemnestra,
asks Agamemnon when their daughter shall wed? He replies,
He replies, "When
the orb of a fortunate moon shall arrive." The spring in China is gene-
rally preferred for wedding, when the peach-tree is in blossom. This
circumstance is alluded to in a little poem in the "Book of Odes," thus
elegantly paraphrased by the accomplished Sir William Jones—
Sweet child of spring, the garden's queen,
Yon peach-tree charms the roving sight;
Its fragrant leaves how richly green,
Its blossoms how divinely bright !
So softly shines the beauteous bride,
By love and conscious virtue led,
O'er her new mansion to preside,
And placid joys around her shed.
The presents already noticed, are sent to the bride in the evening, at
which time the ceremony takes place; hence a bride is compared to the
moon; When the sun sets, the moon appears." Another phrase, in
confirmation of this custom, is, "When the pale moon goes forth, how
fine the appearance of a beautiful woman! (bride.)" The desire for
male children is deemed a virtue, and is incorporated in many of their
daily salutations; thus, "May you have an union, and abundance of the
three blessings," i. e. “Happiness, long life, and male children. To ob-
tain the latter, and to promote lineal descent, concubinage is often resorted
to, but Chinese moralists do not allow a concubine to be taken till after
the age of forty, and when there is no hope of having male issue by the
wife. The former is less esteemed than the latter, and in the Anglo-
Chinese of the natives, is considered as "number two wife," that is
inferior.
""
For a person who has a wife and children to take a Tseih, or concu-
238
bine, of whom he may have as many or as few as he pleases, is esteemed
less virtuous than to refrain from doing so. If for many years a man
has no children by his wife, it is considered perfectly correct to take a
concubine, but if a man has sons by his wife, (for daughters never enter
into the matrimonial account) it is considered derogatory to take a concu-
bine. For every additional concubine a man takes, he sinks in the scale
of virtue; and Chinese moralists have drawn out a fanciful scale of the
exact degrees of virtue and vice, varying from one to ten thousand.
To give a daughter to be a concubine is considered derogatory to the
female, and to the dignity of the family; hence they are generally pur-
chased for a sum of money from persons of an inferior condition. Men
of high spirit will not give their daughters to be concubines to the sove-
reign himself. Of course, there are always time-serving men of high
rank who are not so scrupulous.
At the marriage of a son, the ceremony of capping is observed.
(Kea-Kwan.) In ancient times a bonnet made of cloth was first placed
upon his head; next one of leather, and lastly a nobleman's cap. The
chief parts of this ceremony are yet continued, together with a benedic-
tion pronounced over him.
Dr. Morrison says, in some provinces in China public notice is
issued by wealthy parents, to obtain a husband for their daughter; this
is done by the affluent, who are unwilling to part with their child, and
who, therefore, bring the son-in-law into their own family, instead of
the usual practice of sending the daughter from home.
The bride is expected to weep for ten evenings previously to the mar-
riage, in which she is often joined by her sisters, from whom she is
about to be separated. At the bridegroom's is a large assembly of
friends waiting to congratulate the parties, and partake of an entertain-
ment. At a table prepared for the bride and bridegroom, they sit down
and make a shew of eating together, and also of exchanging the cup
of alliance, which appears to seal the marriage, as it is considered the
most important and an indispensable part. When the gentlemen have
dined they are permitted to see the bride. And after the lapse of one
moon, the parents of the lady visit her at the house of her husband.
When women prove childless, they pay adoration to the goddess
239
Kwan-yin, a principal image in Buddhist temples, whose name means
heedful of prayers," (ter vocata audit,) and whose functions seem com-
pounded of those of Venus genetrix and Lucina. There is, however,
the widest difference in their estimation, between male and female
offspring; the former are as eagerly desired as the latter are, generally,
deprecated. Sons are considered in this country, where the power over
them is so absolute through life, as a sure support, as well as a probable
source of wealth or dignities, should they succeed in learning; but
the grand object is the perpetuation of the race, to continue the
sacrifices at the family tombs. Without sons, a man lives without honour
or satisfaction, and dies unhappy; and, as the only remedy, he is per-
mitted to adopt the sons of the younger brothers. Sometimes, how-
ever, the extreme desire of male offspring leads parents to suborn the
midwives to purchase a boy of some poor person, and substitute it for a
girl just born. This is termed tow lung hwan fung,-" stealing a
dragon in exchange for a phoenix.”
In the event of the death of a young woman, under nineteen years of
age, a paper effigy is made by the parents, and the intended husband
receives the effigy home to his house, with the bridal rites; he then
burns the effigy, and erects a tablet to her memory. This appears to
be the object of the parents of the deceased.
1240. View of Honan from the river.
1241. Rural scenery on the Canton river.
1242. View of the exterior of a temple.
1243. A gentleman's residence.
1244.
Furniture.
1245. Fifth view of the Keang-nan tea process: females twisting the
leaves, preparatory to firing.
1246. Sixth view as above. Females sorting leaves.
1247.
Government officer in a chair, carried by eight bearers.
1248. Furniture, maxims, &c.
1249.
Mandarin in summer dress.
1250. Lady with small feet, in summer dress.
1251.
View of Pinkoo, near Canton.
1252 & 1253.
Exterior views of temples.
240
1254. Furniture.
1255. Seventh view of the Keang-nan tea process: coolies bringing in
the leaves from the trees.
1256. Eighth view, as above: sifting and sorting the leaves.
1257.
Mandarin in winter dress, with bearers, &c.
1258. Mandarin bearing imperial despatches in a yellow silk envelope,
at his back.
1259. Lady of rank, with small feet.
1260. Bridge at Honan, near Canton.
1261. A musical party.
1262.
Flowers from nature.
1263. Birds from life.
1264. Picture of the Bocca Tigris.
The Bocca Tigris, called by the Chinese "THE TIGER'S GATE," or
Tiger's Mouth," is the entrance of the Canton river, and is so
called from the appearance of one of the islands in front of it. It
is, as described by Weddel, (the first Englishman who approached
it,) a goodly inlet," flanked on each side by mountains and fortresses.
The latter appear formidable, but owing to an entire want, on the part
of the Chinese, of a knowledge of gunnery, and to other causes,
they are without any real efficiency. They have been repeatedly
passed, without difficulty, by English men-of-war. Vessels must
show their permits here, before entering; and are, therefore, required
to anchor outside, if they reach the Bogue during the night.
1265.
Flowers and fruit.
1266. Variety of birds on rice paper.
1267. Revenue cutters in pursuit of smugglers.
1268. View of an engagement by moonlight, between revenue officers
and smugglers.
1269. Mandarin and lady.
1270. Mandarin and lady superbly dressed.
1271.
Chinese bedstead, furniture, &c.
Specimens of Chinese furniture are abundantly displayed in this col-
lection; the beds of the Chinese, are constructed and furnished some-
what different from those of Europeans. Instead of the bedstead with

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241
high posts, they have one with a frame and pannels, which are often
carved. Boards are also used in the place of sacking. With the com-
mon people, a few plain boards placed on two wooden forms, serve for a
bedstead, light bamboos being erected for a tester on which to suspend
the curtains, which are indispensable in Canton as a security against
musquitoes. Pieces of cloth or silk are hung around the top of the
tester, answering to a fringe, on which flowers are painted or poetry is
written.
1272. Ninth view of the Keang-nan tea process:-preparation of samples.
1273. Tenth view as above:-drying the leaves on plates of iron, and
not of copper, as is erroneously supposed.
1274.
1275.
1276.
A lady of rank in sedan, with bearers, &c.
Furniture.
Mandarin of the first class, splendidly attired, wearing the feather
with "three eyes."
The lordly appearance of this figure is expressed by the Chinese in the
phrase "Walks like a dragon, and paces like a tiger," indicative of a
stately manner and bearing.
1277. Lady superbly dressed.
1278. Scene near the second bar on the Canton river, with a pagoda in
the distance.
1279. Warrior, with quiver, &c., and lady, seated on portable chairs.
1280. Mandarin and wife in summer dresses.
1281. Imperial chair of state, with screen, &c. The Empress's chair, it
will be observed, is equally splendid as that described in No.
1074, but is ornamented with carved peacocks, while the former
representing the Emperor's throne, has the imperial dragon.
1282. Eleventh view of the Keang-nan tea process: arrival of the “Cha
Kĭh” (tea merchant) in the hill country for the purchase of teas
for foreign markets.
1283. Twelfth view as above: interior of a Hong merchant's establish-
ment at Canton, with coolies packing, weighing, and despatch-
ing teas by lighters, for the foreign shipping at Whampoa.
1284. The lady of the " Tseang-keun," a Tartar general, (described in
No. 1306,) with military attendants, &c.
242
1285. Warrior in winter dress, with despatches or chop in his hand.
1286. Lady in summer costume, smoking.
1287. River view, with fort in the distance.
1288. River scenery with fishing boats, &c.
1289 to 1292. Four frames containing numerous drawings of Chinese
lanterns, of various patterns and devices.
1293. River view, with a boat in a brisk gale.
1294.
Rural scenery.
1295 & 1296. Two frames with drawings on rice paper of Mandarins
and their ladies, superbly attired.
1297 & 1298. Two views in water-colours, representing the interior of
gentlemen's country seats, in one of which (1298) is represented
a specimen of their private theatrical entertainments.
1299. Beautiful specimen of embroidery on satin. The art of em-
broidery, in which the Chinese excel perhaps all others, is
performed principally by men.
1300 & 1301. Two Indian-ink drawings, representing a military review
by the Emperor.
1302. Imperial mandarin.
1303. Lady superbly dressed.
1304. Portrait of Tingqua, merchant of Canton.
1305.
Section of the Great Wall of China.
This vast barrier, separating China from Tartary, was built by Tsin,
the first universal monarch of China, about 200 years B.C., or rather
more than 2,000 from the present time. It is called by the Chinese,
"the City Wall, a thousand le in length." It bounds the whole north
of China, along the frontiers of three provinces, extending from the
shore of the gulf of Pe-chele, 31 deg, east of Pekin, to Se-ning, 15 deg.
west of that capital. The emperors of the Ming dynasty built an
additional inner wall, near to Pekin, on the west, which may be perceived
on the map, enclosing a portion of the province between itself and the
old wall. From the eastern extremity of the Great Wall there is an
extensive stockade of wooden piles, enclosing the country of Mongden,
and this has, in some European maps, been erroneously represented as
a continuation of the solid barrier. (See native map of China, in this
243
collection, No. 1041.) A particular examination of its structure was
made by the gentlemen of Lord Macartney's embassy, who had the good
fortune to pass into Tartary by one of the most entire portions of the wall.
On its first approach, it is described as resembling a prominent vein or
ridge of quartz, standing out from mountains of gneiss or granite. The
continuance of this line over the mountain-tops arrested the attention,
and the form of a wall with battlements was soon distinctly discerned.
It was carried over the ridges of the highest hills, descended into the
deepest valleys, crossed upon arches over rivers, and was doubled in
important passes, being moreover supplied with massy towers or bastions
at distances of about one hundred yards. One of the most elevated
ridges crossed by the wall was 5,000 feet above the level of the sea. It
far surpasses, in short, the sum total of all other works of the kind, and
proved a useful barrier until the power of Ghenghis Khan overthrew the
empire of the Chinese.
1306. A Tartar general, “Tsëung-keun" and suite, having the com-
mand of the garrison of a city; its defence being his particular
department. He is independent of generals outside the walls
of the city which he defends.
He has two adjutants attached to his command, as seen in the drawing,
called “Too-tung," who are distinguished by right and left, from their
taking the command of the left and right wings of the army. The
high official standing of the Tseang-keun is denoted by the figure of a
tiger's head embroidered on the breast of his outward dress, and the
presence of the peacock's feather with three eyes. He has eight bearers
to his sedan, when used, and the same number of attendants follow in his
train when on duty, as here represented.
1307 & 1308. Tartar noble and wife, in full costume. In the cap of the
former is placed a peacock's feather.
This badge of dignity is granted by the Emperor, as a mark of
distinction; it hangs pendant from the cap over the shoulders. The
rank of the wearer is known by having one, two, or three eyes on
the feather, and by a difference of colour; a usage never known in China
till the present dynasty.
Q 2
244
1309. View of Honan, a village on the south side of Pearl river, over
against Canton.
This village is chiefly celebrated for its extensive and magnificent
temple of Buddha, the richest religious establishment in this part of the
empire. No part of the splendid structure is visible in the painting,
which is mainly interesting as affording the best view of river life in the
collection. This is a mode of existence peculiar to the Chinese. The
people of other nations resort to the water for purposes of gain, warfare,
health, or pleasure, for a season, but they never cease to regard the
land as their natural and permanent dwelling-place. They would be
miserable if they believed themselves confined for life to floating habita-
tions, whatever temporary attractions these might possess. But millions
on millions of people in China are born, vegetate, and die, upon the
bosom of its numerous streams. They occasionally make a
"cruise on
shore," but they return to the water as their natural home and element.
It is computed that there are not less than 40,000 dwelling boats within
the immediate neighbourhood of Canton.
streets, which are lighted up at night.
tations, the river is covered with innumerable craft in perpetual
motion; yet such is the skill with which they are managed, and the
peaceableness of the boatmen, that wranglings rarely occur, and quarrels
are almost unknown.
1310. Drawings of birds.
These are arranged in regular
Besides the boats used as habi-
1311. View of the landing and entrance to the Fa-tee flower gardens,
situated a short distance above Canton, on the bank of the
river.
They are principally owned by the Hong merchants of Canton, and
foreigners are allowed to visit them on certain days in each month.
These gardens are beautifully laid out, and afford much gratification and
relief to persons confined to the narrow limits to which all foreigners arc
restricted at Canton. From these gardens the greater number of those
beautiful dwarf shrubs are procured, that are so much esteemed.
1312. Portrait of the late consort of Taou Kwang, Emperor of China.
1313. Portrait of Tingqua Ponkeiqua, a Hong merchant.

T-CILKOSS
ཕྱི
245
1314. Entrance to the city of Pekin on the West.
Pekin has been the capital of the empire since the reign of Yung-lỡ,
A.D. 1423, in the centre of which stands enclosed, the imperial city, five
miles in circumference, in the centre of which is the sacred city, occupy-
ing a third of its dimensions. The capital has nine gates, the number
to correspond perhaps to the nine divisions of the Chinese territory after
the Deluge, as before alluded to.
1315.
1316.
1317.
Empress of China in a car, drawn by two horses, and attended
by female musicians.
Flowers.
Six boats, &c., on rice paper.
1318. View of the great wall dividing China from Tartary. (See
1305.)
1319 to 1322. Four views of Chinese summer-houses, grounds, &c.
The Chinese have a great partiality for fish ponds and artificial lakes
attached to their country houses and grounds. These are rendered agree-
able to the eye by the cultivation and growth of the water-lily, inter-
spersed with tufts of mosses or ferns over artificial rock work.
These ponds or lakes are filled with golden carp, a fish much esteemed
by the Chinese, and is one of the most distinguished of the finny tribe.
They abound in most of their gardens, and are protected sometimes by
nets spread over the ponds to preserve them from the ravages of numer-
ous kingfishers who attack them at dawn of day.
1323.
Picture of Macao.
This is by the same artist, and of the same dimensions as the picture
of Canton, already described. It is a view of Macao, as it appears from
the harbour. The name of this port signifies "The entrance to the
bay." It is situated in 22 deg. 11 sec. No. lat. and 13 deg. 13 sec.
E. long. The town is handsomely situated on a steep declivity, and
protected, as it were, in the rear by the mountain wall. One of the
neighbouring summits is crowned with a Portuguese church, which
shows like a fortress in the distance. The effect is imposing in
approaching by sea, as nearly the whole city is visible, and of a pre-
possessing appearance. Macao is a place of some importance; and
246
interesting on several accounts.
It belongs nominally to the Portu-
guese, to whom the privilege of building a town there was granted
about two hundred and fifty years ago, in consideration of services
rendered in clearing the Chinese waters of a desperate gang of pirates;
but the government is really in the hands of the viceroy at Canton, and
there are regular Chinese officers of justice, government, and the customs.
The Portuguese, however, are governed by their own laws, to enforce
which, they are allowed to employ their own officers. Here all foreign
merchantmen, bound to Canton, have to procure a chop, or permit to
pass the forts, and take on board an inside pilot. This is the utmost
limit to which European or American ladies are ever permitted to intrude
into the Celestial Empire. Most of the foreign merchants resident a
Canton, rusticate at Macao during the summer months.-Lintin, that
harbour for smugglers, lies to the right of the view contained in this
picture.
1324.
View of a gentleman's summer residence and gardens.
1325 & 1326. Two drawings of the interior of gentlemens' summer resi-
dences in China.
Stands with fruit, flowers, &c., on rice paper.
1327.
1328.
Six boats, on rice paper.
1329.
Portrait of a celebrated Chinese beauty.
1330. Portrait of a well known money broker in Canton.
This description of men are exceedingly numerous, and are of
various standing in their line of business.
The smaller dealers
confine themselves principally to the purchase and sale of their
copper coin, called by Europeans cash, by natives tseen, which is the
only coin of the Chinese. They are thin and circular, and nearly an
inch in diameter, having a square hole in the centre for the convenience
of tying them together, with a raised edge both around the outside
and the hole. Those now in use have the name of the emperor in
whose reign they were cast, stamped upon them, with the words
tung paou," precious circulating medium." Notwithstanding their
trifling value, they are much adulterated with spelter; yet, on ac-
count of their convenience in paying small sums and for common use,
247
they generally bear a premium, and are the thousandth part of a tael.*
The use of the silver coin, however, appears to be increasing among
the Chinese, as by recent accounts we learn that silver dollars
have been made in Fuh-keën and other places, contrary to the
laws of the empire. In his journal, Mr. Lindsay says, "At Fuh-
The
chow, dollars are not defaced by stamping as at Canton.
ingots are of quite a different description from those in use in
Canton, but of excellent quality." When the dollar first comes
into the possession of a Chinese, he gives it a stamp, or chop,
thus extracting a small portion of the metal; receiving the same
usage from each hand it passes through, it is reduced from its coinage
value to that of merely its weight. The possessor of this clipped
money, finding the bulk inconvenient, melts it down into the form of
Sycee silver, a species more easy to stow than if it was in the former
coin, in which 1,000 drilled dollars might not exceed the value of
200. The Sycee silver is more valuable than any other, on
account of its containing portions of gold dust. It is generally in
the form of a canoe, with a stamp in the centre. In ancient
times the shells of the tortoise and pearl oyster, were used as a
circulating medium in the exchange for commodities, till about 200
years B.C., when the "cash" noticed above was introduced. Under
the Sung dynasty, in the reign of Shaou-hing (A.D. 1170,) a kind
of paper money or bank note was issued of various amounts.
Offices were appointed by the government every where to receive and
issue them. They were to be renewed within seven years, and
about one and a half per cent. was deducted by the government for
the expences of their issue. A scarcity of copper coin is assigned as
one reason; and another is, the want of money to pay the army, which
led to this scheme to entice the merchant with the convenience
of it.
The Chinese are very fastidious in their choice of foreign coins, re-
jecting some and choosing others, merely with regard to the device.
Spanish dollars with pillars, especially those issued in the reign of
A tael is about a dollar and a third.
248
f
Charles IV. are the most current, often bearing a slight premium; while
on the other hand, the coins of the United States are passed with
difficulty, even at a discount of two, three, or even șix per cent.
Precious cover" is a name given to the crown supporting the pillars in
Carolus dollars; "the two candlestick dollars," is a term by which the
Spanish coin is also known. "Precious goose," "precious duck," and
"flying hen" dollars, are other appellations given to the coins of the
United States. The terms, Flower edged money," "Foreign faced
money," and Devil's head money," all express the Spanish dollar.
The sign-board of a money-changer's shop usually reads, "cash and
silver exchanged at pleasure;" and to attract the notice of customers more
certainly, there are, besides the gay sign-board, three or four wooden
cylinders, marked with lines to represent so many strings of cash, sus-
pended over the door. In leasing and hireing shops and other places of
business in China, the securities given and received, are a lease and a
bond. The former, clearly specifying the conditions on which the shop
is rented, is a written document, delivered into the hands of the tenant,
who keeps it in witness thereof. The bond, which is made out by the
tenant after he has examined the lease, is a writing given in reply thereto,
signifying his wish to receive the lease upon the terms agreed on, and his
compliance with the customary payment of two dollars annually for
"shoe money," and also the payment of a certain sum as earnest money;
without which, no confidence can be had that the agreement will be kept.
At the time of payment, whether monthly, quarterly, or as is sometimes
the case, once in four months, (the rent being always paid at the com-
mencement of the term over which the time extends) the sum already
paid as stated above, is deducted from the full amount. This practice of
depositing earnest money, in which the Chinese resemble the Turks, is
carried into all important transactions of life; even betrothment is not
settled without it.
The person who receives the rent, has often to travel much; and
therefore the tenant, in addition to the rent, is required to add a certain
sum, which he pays to the collector of the rent for the purchase of shoes,
as a reward for his trouble going backwards and forwards; and hence
his singular charge is called "shoe money,”
249
1331.
The exterior view of the Imperial Hall of Audience, at
Pekin.
This is a lofty building, and is about 130 feet in length. The interior
decorations correspond with its external beauty. Yellow tiles are an
imperial emblem, and are used only on the emperor's palaces, and the
temples of Confucius. The ceiling is richly carved and adorned with
gilt dragons, upon a green surface, highly varnished. The roof is sup-
ported with numerous crimson pillars of large dimensions. The walls
are white and highly polished, but without hangings or ornaments of any
kind.
The imperial throne, "the dragon's seat," stands nearly in the centre
of the hall, and is simple in its form and style, having the inscription
Taou Kwang, "Reason's Glory" inscribed upon it.
In front of the throne, stands a large bronze vessel, in which incense
is offered on particular occasions.
1332. Emperor of China borne by sixteen officers.
1333 to 1335. These drawings are the continuation of the rearing of
the silk worm and culture of the mulberry tree, as practised at
Nankin, and correspond with the Nos. 1028-9-30 placed on
the face of the opposite pillar.
1336 to 1339. Four paintings in oil, representing the annual military re-
view which takes place about the new year, near the “Tëen-how-
shan," or Queen of Heaven's Hill," in the vicinity of Canton.
In the almost total absence of actual warfare, says Mr. Davis,
the Chinese soldiers are periodically exercised by their commanders.
Their field-days consist in tumultuous and disorderly marches in the train
of their mandarins, or in sham fights, which are conducted (like their
theatrical performances) with the din of gongs and other noisy instru-
ments. To this is joined some practice in drawing the bow, and in the
use of the sword. Their reviews consist partly in the examination of
their matchlocks, their swords, and arrows; and, when they have any,
of their helmets or padded armour. As far as our experience went in
the embassy, their offensive arms were always in a wretched condition .
The greater number of soldiers are at liberty to follow some trade or
occupation, as they are in fact a mere militia periodically called out.
250
Exceptions occur only among the Tartar troops, and those Chinese
who are empoyed as a standing police or guard. So far from there being
any necessity to enrol soldiers by compulsion, or by bounty money,
the profession is eagerly sought after as a favor, and as an addition
to the person's means of livelihood. The only occupation of the
Chinese army, with very few exceptions, since the Tartar conquest,
has been to over-awe popular revolts, and keep the people in order.
The board at Pekin, called the Ping-poo, or "military tribunal," has
controul chiefly over the armed police of the empire; that is, the
Chinese, as distinguished from the Tartar troops. It has couriers
always ready to be dispatched to the provinces, and to convey its secret
orders. Banditti and malefactors of every kind are traced out with
almost unerring certitude, and all experience bears testimony to the
extreme efficiency of the police of the country."
In these paintings will be observed numerous shields, in the hands of
the soldiery, of hideous devices, similar to those lately taken from
the Chinese, and now placed in the Royal Arsenal at Woolwich.
The design is evidently to strike their opponents with terror and
affright.
1340. A theatrical representation by moonlight. For information on
this subject the visitor is referred to the remarks made in p. 73.
1341. Four specimens of Chinese windows.
The substance used for transmitting the light is Anomia Placenta,
or pearl shell. A variety of other materials are employed for the same
purpose, as mica, horn, paper, silk gauze, and a semi-transparent paper
brought from Corea. Glass windows are seldom seen. There is a
frame-work in front of the translucent substance, dividing it into small
panes of various shapes. This is the general style of Chinese windows,
but the passion of the people for variety leads them to adopt an endless
diversity of patterns.
251
CHINESE TOPOGRAPHICAL HISTORY
OF THE
CITY OF CANTON.
THE Chinese Topographical annalists, say, that 2230 years antecedent
to the Christian era, the region now called Kwang-tung, (Canton) was
noticed in ancient records, under the names Kaou-che; Nan-kaou ;
Nan-ee; Pă-yue; and Yue.
Tsin-che, the first universal Chinese monarch, about two centuries
before our era, pushed his conquests to the south of the Mei-ling
mountain, that bounds Canton on the north, through which a pass was
subsequently cut in the eighth century.
This military conqueror (Tsin-che-hwang) i.e. Tsin, the first emperor,
put Pih, "Shining white, or Resplendent," on the top of the character
Wang,
a king,” in order to make a new title for himself, meaning the
glorious king, and which, in the poverty of European phrase, is translated
Emperor; and who, to prove his title to the designation Che, "the first"
-the "Beginning," burnt all the ancient records he could find, and
buried alive the readers of books. This conqueror called Canton, Nan-
hae, "the Southern Sea," a name which is yet retained for the principal
Heen, or district, in the province. From that period till the Sung dy-
nasty, about A.D. 1000, Canton underwent many revolutions, and was
variously designated.
Tsin-che-hwang's successor, Urh-hwang-te-she, sent to it 15,000 unmarri-
ed women; and nearly four hundred years afterwards it was called Kwei-
lin-tseang-kwan, "the region of cassia forests, and elephants." At the
time above mentioned, (A.D. 1000,) whilst the court resided at Nan-
king, (or in the provincial dialect Nam-king) Canton, or Ling-nan, (as it
was then called) was considered one of the worst places of banishment
252
for refractory statesmen. To go
South of the mountain," as Ling-
nan signified, was deemed certain death.
The present name of Canton, viz., Kwang-tung, was not adopted till
the Mwan-chow, or Tartar dynasty, founded by the grandson of Genghis,
Khan. Even till the Ming-chaou, which expelled the Tartars, and was in
its turn expelled by those Tartars who now fill the throne of China,
Canton was not called a sang or province, but a tow or loo, a way
or road." And then, first, about A. D. 1397, the metropolis was called
by its present name, Kwang-chow-foo: previously to that time it was
called Kwang-chow-loo. Under the Emperor Kow-te, of the Han
dynasty, a self-made king, who held his court at Pun-yu, the modern
Whampoa district, called Canton region by a name he thought applicable
to himself—Nan-mow, "The southern warrior."
The Emperor Kow-te confirmed his title, and the king Ya-kung
'offered tribute" to his liege lord. Under the same dynasty, a king of
Man-yue, as Fokien was then called, made war upon Canton, and lost
his life. By the interference of the Emperor, peace was restored; but
he soon afterwards sent his own troops to subject Nan-man, “The
southern barbarians," as the people of Canton were called by him.
A.D. 415, the pirate Loo-swan attacked and took possession of Can-
ton after a hundred days fighting.
In 419, the people of Canton sent, as tribute to Woo-te, "The
Martial Monarch," a piece of fine cloth. But the hardy warrior was so
displeased at its luxurious softness, that he rejected it, and issued a
mandate, forbidding the people of the south ever to make any more
such fine cloth.
In 654, King-chow (or the Island of Hainan,) was first occupied by
the order of the second Emperor of the Tang dynasty.
About 703, She-pih, "trading vessels," began to introduce "rare
commodities," extraordinary or curious manufactures.
The ensuing year was remarkable, for the governor, Sung-Ying, "first
teaching the people to burn earthenware."
And in 705, a statesman, called Chung-kow-ling, cut the famous pass
through the Mei-ling mountain, to facilitate intercourse between
Canton and the northern parts of the empire.
253
It is further remarked, to the credit of this statesman, that when, on
the
emperor Yuen Tsung's Tseen Tsew, "thousand autumns," i.e. his birth
day, all the courtiers were presenting "ornamented mirrors;" Chung-
kow-ling offered a work, in five volumes, which he had composed to show
"the causes of the rise and fall of former dynasties ;" and this work he
called, “a golden birth-day mirror.”
In 795, a general, who commanded in Canton, wrote to court, stating
that the trading vessels had all deserted Canton and repaired to An-nam,
Cochin-China; and he added, that he wished to send a sort of consul
thither.
Some of the ministers were in favour of the measure, but the imperial
will was determined in opposition to it, by the opinion of one who
argued to this effect:-"Multitudes of trading vessels have hereto-
fore flocked to Canton; if they have all at once deserted it, and repaired
to Cochin-China, it must have either been from extortions being insup-
portable, or from some failure in affording proper inducements. When
a gem spoils in its case, who is to blame but the keeper of it? If the
pearl be fled to other regions, how is it to be propelled back again?" The
Shoo-king classic says, "Do not prize too much strange commodities,
and persons will come from remote parts."
The spirit engendered by this sentiment is in unison with the general
temper of the Chinese, inclining to the idea of affecting INDIFFERENCE in
obtaining what they most desire. The Chinese studiously repress curiosity.
This same year those in power were forbidden, by imperial autho-
rity, to take, by force, the sons and daughters of peaceable subjects, to
make slaves of them; which prohibition implies the previous existence
of the unjust and cruel slave trade.
In 897, the Cochin-Chinese made war upon Canton by land; and a
public spirited man obtained great credit for building large vessels to
bring grain from Füh-keen province.
After the fall of the Tang dynasty, (in allusion to which the Chinese
of the present day call themselves Tang Yin, a man of Tang,") there
were five short dynasties of from ten to twenty years' duration each;
in Chinese history, called the Woo-tae, "five generations." To the
first of these, in 904, Canton sent tribute of gold, silver, rhinoceros'
254
horns, ivory, and other valuable commodities, to the amount of five
millions of taels. The principal person concerned, viz. Low-hëen, was, in
consequence, created King of Canton, under the title Nan-hae-wang,
King of the southern sea.
The Court of Canton is represented, at this time, as cruel and extra-
vagant in an extreme degree ;-criminals were boiled, roasted, and
flayed, and thrown on spikes, and forced to fight with tigers and ele-
phants! The horrid tale shocked the founder of the most learned Chi-
nese dynasty, viz. that of Sung, (A.D. 964) and he exclaimed,
"It is
my duty to deliver the people of this region." A prodigy was seen by
the people of Canton, "all the stars flowed to the north," and the
ensuing year they obtained peace and tranquillity.
At this period Canton appears to have been in a very barbarous state;
and, in the estimation of the government, was excessively addicted to
sorcery and superstition. Hence (A.D. 980) government "prohibited
the superstitious practises on the south of the mountain," and threw down
their superstitious temples."
"
Yin (superstitious) usually denotes
lewd," whether lewdness formed a part of their rites is not
certain.
Another prohibition was,- not to "kill men to sacrifice to demons.”
Thus it appears, that not more than 800 years ago, human sacrifices
were offered in China; and report says, that even to the present day,
the makers of porcelain purchase a child which they devote to be burnt
in a new made furnace. At the period now referred to, witches and
wizards were prohibited; and dispensaries of medicine were established
to relieve the sufferers from the noxious damp diseases, much spoken of
in the history of that period. The Sung dynasty, at its commencement,
appears to have studied much the welfare of Canton.
It forbid expe-
ditions against Cochin-China, reprobating the idea of distressing the
people from a mere covetous desire of uscless territory.
city of Canton to be walled in; and when the Cochin-Chinese pillaged
the western side of the province, they did not venture to lay siege to
Canton.
It caused the
It was subsequently harassed by interual rebellions, and by attacks
from contending dynasties. In the first Tartar conquest it suffered much ;
255
and their historians dare not yet tell what it suffered in the conquest made
by the reigning family. Tradition says, that TWO-THIRDS of the inha-
bitants perished.
About 1397, Ho-tsaug, "burning funeral rites" were prohibited;
i. e. burning the corpse instead of interring it. This is, however, the
present practice of the Buddha priests in China. The same authority
also forbade the use of the terms created by the preceding Tartar
dynasty, viz. "Gods of the west, east, and north seas"-retaining
only the "God of the southern sea.’
About A.D. 1500, the pirates of Canton joined with the Japanese
pirates, and committed depredations on the coast; and frequent insur-
rections are recorded, some of which lasted for ten years at a time,
which, together with banditti of robbers, must have greatly distressed
the peaceable inhabitants. It was in these troublesome times, during
the reign of Kea-tsing, who ascended the throne in 1520, that Europeans
first visited China by sea.
Chinese annalists close by saying, that during the last years of the
Ming dynasty, when anarchy generally prevailed, the sufferings of the
people were inexpressible; but the temporary blaze of an expiring flame
naturally precedes its eternal extinction; and the flame of discord blazed
awhile, till the rising Tartar family that now reigns, extinguished it for
ever, and introduced a never-ending tranquillity!
GENERAL REMARKS
ON THE
GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF CHINA.
The
The Chinese government is, nominally at least, patriarchal.
authority of a parent over his children is the type of the imperial rule.
The emperor claims to be the father of his subjects, exercising an influ-
ence over the minds of his people in the promotion of virtue and
256
the encouragement of talent. The Chinese have a saying," A prince
is like a vessel, the people like water; the water is moulded by the shape of
the vessel."
As such, the Emperor exercises supreme, absolute, unchecked power over
more than one-third of the human race. He has but to sign the decree, and
any one of three hundred and fifty millions of human beings is instantly
deprived of rank, possessions, liberty, or life itself. This is a stupendous
system, a phenomenon unmatched in the annals of time, and worthy to
engage the profound attention of statesmen and philosophers. The
subjects of the Macedonian were but as a handful compared with the
teeming millions of Eastern Asia; the Roman Empire when at its greatest
extent, numbered not more than one third of the present population of
China; and the throne of the Cæsars was, in the power it conferred upon
its occupant, but as a child's elevation in comparison with that on which
the Tartar sits. Even the British empire, vast as it is, and extending into
all regions of the globe, does not contain more than 181,000,000 of
souls. We can but glance at a few of the details of this system, and the
causes which have given it stability.
r
At the head of the system stands, of course, the Emperor. His titles
are, the
Son of Heaven," and the "Ten Thousand Years." In an
official document received by the governor general of Bengal from the
general of the Chinese forces, the emperor is styled, "THE FLOWER OF THE
IMPERIAL RACE, THE SUN OF THE FIRMAMENT OF HONOR, THE RESPLEN-
DENT GEM IN THE CROWN AND THRONE OF THE CHINESE TERRITORIES.'
Of this august personage it was said, by a Tartar, over-powered by the
glories of the emperor ;-(A. D. 1060.) "THE SOVEREIGN OF CHINA IS A
MANIFESTATION OF THE SUN IN THE HEAVENS."
Ubiquity is considered as among his attributes; temples are erected to
him in every part of the empire: and he is worshipped as a god. Yet
he sometimes styles himself "the imperfect man," and his ordinary dress
is far from splendid. While the grand mandarins that compose his court,
glitter in gold and diamonds, he appears in a plain and simple garb.
Nevertheless, no means are omitted to keep up the prestige of his majesty.
The outer gate of the imperial palace cannot be passed by any person
whatsoever, in a carriage or on horseback. There is a road between
257
;—
Pekin and the emperor's summer residence in Tartary, wide, smooth,
level, and always cleanly swept, on which no one but himself is permitted
to travel. At the palace, a paved walk leads to the principal hall or
audience, which is never pressed but by imperial feet. Despatches from
the emperor are received in the provinces with prostrations and the burn-
ing of incense. Sir George Staunton records an instance of the
august dread with which the Chinese regard their sovereign in the
following anecdote ;-" In the beginning of this journey," says he
“one of the ambassador's guards died of a surfeit, as was supposed, of
fruit. His death happened in one of the emperor's palaces; but such
is the extraordinary delicacy of the people in everything relating to
their dread Sovereign, that it was contrary to rule to have allowed
any person to breathe his last within the imperial precincts. The
conductors, therefore, of the ambassy, directed the corpse, of this
European to be carried from thence in a palanquin, as if still alive; and
his death was announced at some distance upon the road."
cession is at the absolute disposal of the emperor. Instances have
occurred, though they are rare, in which persons not connected with the
imperial family have been named. The immediate assistants of the
emperor are-
The suc-
I. The Nuy-ko. This is the great council of state. The chief
counsellors are four, two Tartars and two Chinese. Besides these,
there are several others, of inferior rank, who in conjunction with them,
constitute the council. Almost all the members of the Nuy-kŏ are
selected from the imperial college of the Hânlin.
II. The Keun-ke-tâ-chin. This is a body of privy councillors.
III. The Luh-poo, or six boards for conducting the details of public
business. They are,
1. The Board of Appointments, having cognizance of the conduct
of all civil officers.-
2. The Board of Revenue, whose duties extend to all fiscal matters.
ci ci
3.
The Board of Rites and Ceremonies, which keeps watch and
ward over the public morals, and has controul over the fashions
in China.
R
258
4. The Military Board, charged with the affairs of the army and
5.
navy.
The supreme Court of Criminal Jurisdiction.
6. The board of Public Works.
IV. The Le-fân-yuen, or Office for foreign affairs. Its duties embrace
all the external relations of the empire. The members of the Le-fân-
yuen are always Mongol or Manchow Tartars.
V. The Too-cha-yuen, or Board of Censors, or Censorate, consisting
of forty or fifty members, is one of the principal courts of the Capital,
intrusted with "the care of manners and customs, the investigation of all
public offices within and without the Capital, the discrimination between
the good and bad performance of the business thereof, and between the
uprightness and depravity of the officers employed therein; taking the
lead of the other censors, and uttering each his sentiments and reproofs,
in order to cause officers to be diligent in attention to their daily duties,
and render stable the government of the empire. They are sent into
different parts of the empire as imperial inspectors, which means spies.
By an ancient custom, on most state occasions, some of the members of
this Court attend by the side of the Emperor, and are usually permitted
to express to him their opinions and advice, without the hazard of losing
their lives; but blunt honesty is not often relished by the great from any
quarter, and unpalatable remonstrances have sometimes cost their authors
the favour in which they had before basked.
The provinces are governed each by a chief magistrate, entitled Foo-
yuen, or two together are under the government of a Tsung-tuh, who
has Foo-yuens under him. Canton and Kwâng-se are subject to a
Tsung-tŭh, called by Europeans, the viceroy of Canton. The governors of
the provinces have, subordinate to them, an army of civil magistrates
amounting to fourteen thousand. No individual is permitted to hold
office in the province where he was born; and public functionaries
interchange places periodically, to prevent the formation of too intimate
connexion with the people under their government. A quarterly pub-
lication is made, by authority, of the name, birth-place, &c., of every
official person in the empire; and once in three years, a report is sent up
259
to the board of official appointments, by the foo-yuen of each province,
containing the names of all the officers in his government, and a full
statement concerning their conduct and character, received from the
immediate superiors of each. Every officer is held to a strict responsibi-
lity for the good behaviour and fidelity of all who are under him. Letters
are held in higher esteem than arms, and the civil officers of course
outrank the military. This may be set down to their credit, as it is
certainly a mark of social advancement.
No man in China inherits office,* nor does hereditary rank, as among
ourselves, enjoy much consideration or influence. This fact is placed
in a strong light by the following anecdote, related by Sir George
Staunton, secretary to Lord Macartney's embassy. Among the pre-
sents for the emperor was a volume of portraits of the British
nobility. That the inspection of them might be more satisfactory
to his majesty, a mandarin was employed to mark, in Chinese cha-
racters, on the margin, the names and rank of the persons represented.
When he came to the print of an English duke, from a portrait taken
in childhood, and was told that the original was a ta-jin, or great
man," of very high rank, he had so little conception of a child's being
qualified, by hereditary right, to be possessed of such a dignity, that
he gave a look of surprise, and laying down his pencil, exclaimed, that he
could not venture to describe him in that manner, for the emperor knew
very well how to distinguish a great man from a boy.
.:
The penal code of China is an interesting subject. If we go upon the
principle of judging the tree by its fruits, and look at this code in con-
nexion with its results, we shall be compelled to allow, that it is wisely
framed and efficiently administered. It is lucidly arranged under six
principal divisions, corresponding to the six boards described. It
is not needful to enumerate the several heads of chapters embraced in
these divisions. The principal defects of the code, in the opinion of Mr.
Davis, are,-
* There is a law in their Penal Code denouncing death not only on him who recom-
mends the elevation of a civil officer to an hereditary title, hut also to him in whose
favor the recommendation is made.
R 2
260
1. A constant meddling with those relative duties which had better
2.
3.
be left to other sanctions than positive laws.-
A minute attention to trifles, contrary to the European maxim,
de minimis non curat lex ;
An occasional indulgence in those vague generalities, by which
the benefits of a written code are in a great measure an-
nulled.
À prominent feature of the Chinese criminal laws is the marked and unre-
lenting severity with which it punishes treason, not only in the person of the
traitor, but in those of his unoffending offspring, even the suckling at the
breast. The whole are cut off at one fell blow! It is impossible to read
the recital of some of these punishments, so abhorrent to humanity
and justice, without a sentiment of indignation as well as of sym-
pathy.
The most common instrument of punishment is the bamboo, the dimen-
sions of which are exactly defined. The number of blows, attached gradatim
with such precision to every individual offence, answers the purpose of a
scale or measurement of the degrees of crime; and this punishment
being often commutable for fine or otherwise, the apparent quantity of
flagellation is of course greater than the real. The next punishment is
the kea, or cangue, which has been called the wooden collar, being a
species of walking pillory, in which the prisoner is paraded, with his
offence inscribed. It is sometimes worn for a month together, and as the
hand cannot be put to the mouth, the wearer must be fed by others."
After this comes banishment to some place in China, and then exile beyond
the Chinese frontier, either for a term of years or for life.
three kinds of capital punishment,-strangulation, decollation, and for
treason, ling che," a disgraceful and lingering death," styled by Euro-
peans, cutting into ten thousand pieces. The punishment of this latter
offence against the state is extended to the whole members of the traitors
family, hence arises the phrase," To grub up the roots of trees,” said
in reference to, and in defence of, the custom of executing the whole of
the family of the traitor, so that none are left.
There are
A debtor who does not discharge the claims of his creditors, after the
261
expiration of a certain specified period, becomes liable to the bamboo.
A man may sell himself in China, says Sir George Staunton, in certain
cases, such as to discharge a debt to the crown, or to assist a father in
distress, or if a father be dead to bury him in due form.
When a debtor absconds, it is usual for all his creditors to paste upon
his door the bills and accounts which they hold against him. Some-
times the creditor, in lieu of money or goods, takes from the debtor his
wives, sons, concubines, and daughters; but this procedure is not allowed
by the laws of the empire, and is therefore not carried to a great
extent.
If his conduct in servitude should be unimpeachable, he is entitled to
his liberty at the end of twenty years. If otherwise, he continues a
slave for life, as do his children, if he had included them in the original
agreement. The emperor's debtors, if fraudulently such, are strangled ;
if merely by misfortunes, their wives and children and property of every
kind, are sold; and they are sent themselves to the new settlement in
Tartary. The interests of the emperor are always made the first object.
No property can be secure against his claims.
Chinese law, however, with all its faults, is comparative perfection
when contrasted with that of Japan, as described by Kampfer:
'I have often wondered," says he, "at the brief and laconic style of
those tablets which are hung up on the road side, to notify the emperor's
pleasure.
There is no reason given how it came about that such a law was made;
no mention of the lawgiver's view and intentions, nor any graduated
penalty put upon the violator thereof. The bare transgression of the
law is a capital offence, without any regard to the degree or heinousness
of the crime, or for the favorable circumstances the offender's case may
be attended with."
Some such compassion, perhaps, suggested the complacent reflections
of Teen-ke-shě, a Chinese, who wrote thus :—
•
I felicitate myself that I was born in China! It constantly occurs to
me, what if I had been born beyond the sea, in some remote part of the
earth, where the cold freezes, or the heat scorches; where the people are
clothed with the leaves of plants, eat wood, dwell in the wilderness, lie in
262
holes of the earth, are far removed from the converting maxims of the
ancient kings, and are ignorant of the domestic relations. Though born
as one of the generation of men, I should not have been different from a
beast. But how happily I have been born in China! I have a house to
live in, have drink and food, and commodious furniture. I have clothing
and caps, and infinite blessings. Truly the highest felicity is mine."*
We will close this very brief notice of the Chinese criminal law,
with the following testimony of an able writer in the Edinburgh Review.
He says:
"The most remarkable thing in this code is its great rea-
sonableness, clearness, and consistency; the business-like brevity and
directness of the various provisions, and the plainness and moderation of
the language in which they are expressed. It is a clear, concise, and dis-
tinct, series of enactments, savouring throughout of practical judgment and
European good sense. When we turn from the ravings of the Zendavesta,
or the Puranas, to the tone of sense and of business of this Chinese
code, we seem to be passing from darkness to light-from the dri-
vellings of dotage, to the exercise of an improved understanding: and,
redundant and minute as these laws are in many particulars, we scarcely
know any European code that is at once so copious and so consistent,
or that is nearly so free from intricacy, bigotry, and fiction."
It is generally supposed that the Chinese claim to have authentic
annals extending back to a date anterior to the period usually assigned to
the creation of the world. This however, is an erroneous supposition.
It is true that they have a fabulous history which pretends to relate events
occuring we know not how many thousand ages ago; but intelligent
Chinese scholars consider and admit this to be a pure invention. They
claim, indeed, a high antiquity, and there can be no doubt that the claim
is well founded.
In speaking of their national institutions, they allude to their antiquity,
as of
ages numerous as the small particles of dust of which the world
is made.'
It is probable, that Alexander might have spared his tears, and saved
himself the perpetration of an egregious folly, had he known that, far
* Chinese Gleaner, vol. 1, pp. 190.
263
beyond the Ganges, there lay an empire more vast and mighty than
any with whose power he had grappled ;--an empire flourishing in
the arts of civilized life, and destined to survive, in a green and vigorous
old age, long after the last vestiges of his ill-gotten power had disap-
peared from the earth.
A full development of the causes which have given strength and
stability to the Chinese empire, which have matured and perpetuated its
institutions, would be an interesting and instructive labour. We cannot
pretend to attempt it, but may, in passing, throw out a few hints upon
the subject. There can be no doubt, that the sea and the mountain
barriers by which China is surrounded, the unwarlike character of her
neighbours, her almost total isolation from the rest of the world, her
vigilant police, the eligibility of all classes to the trusts and dignities of
office, and the rigid system of responsibility enforced upon her officers
have all had their share in the result. But these causes are insufficient to
explain the phenomenon. The most powerful agent beyond all question,
is the education of her people. We speak here not so much of the edu-
cation received in schools, as of that which consists in an early, constant,
vigorous, and efficient training of the disposition, manners, judgment,
and habits both of thought and conduct. This most efficient department
of education is almost wholly overlooked and neglected by us; but it
seems to be well understood and faithfully attended to by the Chinese.
Ancient times," says they, the most valuable means of influenc-
ing the people was virtue, next to it the best thing was severity.”—
With us, instruction is the chief part of education, with them training;
let the wise judge between the wisdom of the two methods. The senti-
ments held to be appropriate to man in society, are imbibed with the milk
of infancy, and iterated and reiterated through the whole of subsequent
life; the manners considered becoming in adults, are sedulously imparted
in childhood; the habits regarded as conducive to individual advancement,
social happiness, national repose and prosperity, are cultivated with
the utmost diligence; and, in short, the whole channel of thought and
feeling for each generation, is scooped out by that which preceded it, and
the stream always fills but rarely overflows its embankments. The greatest
pains are taken to acquaint the people with their personal and political
264
duties, wherein they again set us an example worthy of imitation. "Our
rights," is a phrase in everybody's mouth, but our duties engage but a
comparatively small share of our thoughts. Volumes are written on the
former where pages are on the latter. The sixteen discourses of the
Emperor Yun-ching, on the sixteen sacred institutes of Kang-he, the
most accomplished and virtuous of Chinese sovereigns, are read twice
every moon to the whole empire. On the 1st and 15th of every moon,
or the new and full moon, the principal officers of the province assemble
in a hall, and listen to a preacher mounted on a table, who rehearses
memoriter, a section of the Shing-yu, first in Chinese, and next in the
Tartar language for the benefit of the soldiers who attend. We subjoin
the texts of these discourses as curious, and at the same time highly
illustrative of Chinese character.
1. Be strenuous in filial piety and fraternal respect, that you may
thus duly perform the social duties.-2. Be firmly attached to your
kindred and parentage, that your union and concord may be conspicuous.
-3. Agree with your countrymen and neighbours, in order that dis-
putes and litigation may be prevented.-4. Attend to your farms and
mulberry trees, that you may have sufficient food and clothing.-5.
Observe moderation and economy, that your property may not be
wasted.-6. Extend your schools of instruction, that learning may be
duly cultivated.-7. Reject all false doctrines, in order that you may
duly honour true learning.-8. Declare the laws and their penalties, for
a warning to the foolish and ignorant.-9. Let humility and propriety of
behaviour be duly manifested, for the preservation of good habits and
laudable customs.-10. Attend each to your proper employments, that
the people may be fixed in their purposes.-11. Attend to the education
of youth, in order to guard them from doing evil.-12. Abstain from
false accusing, that the good and honest may be in safety.-13. Dissuade
from the concealment of deserters, that others be not involved in their
guilt.—14. Duly pay your taxes and customs, to spare the necessity or
enforcing them.—15. Let the tithings and hundreds unite, for the sup-
pression of thieves and robbers.-16. Reconcile animosities, that your
lives be not lightly hazarded."
The discourses founded on these excellent maxims are clear, direct,
265
1
and simple in their style, and are characterized by vigorous thought and
practical sense. They might be adopted as a model for didactic com-
positions. The imperial pen deals summarily and rather cavalierly
with the ministers of the Buddhist and Taou sects. We offer a few
specimens from the "Book of Sacred Instructions." The curious will
find them interesting;-
This filial piety is a doctrine from Heaven, the consummation of
earthly justice, is the grand principle of action among mankind. The
man who knows not piety to parents, can surely not have considered the
affectionate hearts of parents towards their children. When, still infants
in arms, hungry, they could not feed themselves; cold, they could not
clothe themselves; but they had then parents who watched the sounds
of their voice, and studied the traits of their countenance; who were
joyful when they smiled; afflicted when they wept; who followed
them, step by step, when they moved; who, when they were sick or in
pain, refused food and sleep on their account. Thus were they nursed
and educated until they grew up to manhood.' Formerly, in the
family of Chang-kung-tze, nine generations lived together under the
same roof. In the family of Chang-she of Kang-chow seven hundred
partook of the same daily repast. Thus ought all those who are of the
same name to bear in remembrance their common ancestry and pa-
rentage."-"Economy should, therefore, be held in estimation. A
store is like a stream of water, and moderation and economy are like
the dams which confine it. If the course of the water is not stopped
by the dam, the water will be constantly running out, and the channel
at length will be dry. If the use of the store is not restricted by
moderation and economy, it will be consumed without stint, and at
length will be wholly exhausted."-"Wisdom should precede, and
letters follow."-"He who pretends to profound learning, without
regarding first himself, and his own duties, fame indeed he may acquire,
but when he is examined, he will be found to possess no solidity.".
"These wandering and mendicant sectaries* are glad to disguise their
views, because of the corruption of their practises. Their chief pursuit
* The Taou and Buddhist priests.
266
is to diffuse false auguries, and omens of good and bad fortune; and
they thus make a livelihood by the sale of their idle tales and vain
predictions.
At first they go no farther than to delude the people out
of their money, to enrich themselves, but, by degrees, they lead the
people of both sexes to meet indecorously together;* and burning
incense, they initiate them into their sect.-Husbandmen and artisans
desert their respective callings, and flock after these vain and deceitful
talkers."
Such, then, is the spirit of the constitution, laws, and education of
China. The conclusion of the whole matter, the grand results secured,
are a stable throne, a country enjoying an extraordinary degree of
internal quiet, a population, mild, peaceful, obedient, cheerful, and in-
dustrious, and a perpetuity of national existence unequalled in the
world's history.
The population of China has been variously estimated. Lord Mac-
artney states the number of inhabitants at 333,000,000; Dr. Mor-
rison's son at 360,000,000. It is well known that the learned doctor's
own estimate was only 150,000,000, but he stated to Mr. Dunn, two
years before his death, that he was then convinced that the highest
number ever given did not exceed the true one.
Whichever may be
the fact, it is certain that every part of the empire teems with life. The
whole policy of the government, and all the tendencies of the empire,
that can at all bear upon the matter are in favour of multiplication.
Children are obliged to provide for the old age of their parents; and
the want of offspring, to pay the customary honours at the family
tombs and in the "Hall of ancestors," is considered the most grievous of
calamities. These considerations are vigorous stimulants to marriage,
and, coming in aid of the natural instincts of the race, leave fewer
bachelors and maids in China than in any other country on the globe.
The owners of slaves, who do not procure husbands for their females,
are liable to prosecution. Three generations, and more, often live under
the same roof, and eat at the same board; a system of clubbing, which
* In many temples may be seen a tablet, placed in a conspicuous situation, with
the following injunction : "Men and women pray separate."
267
by diminishing the expense of living, tends strongly to an increase of
population. Again, the laws of the empire, and all the prejudices and
sentiments of the people, are against emigration, which prevents that
drainage by means of which other civilized and trading nations are
relieved of their surplus inhabitants.
In the Chinese Government, there appears great regularity and system.
Every district has its appropriate officers; every street its constable, and
every ten houses a tything man. They have all the requisite means of
ascertaining the population with considerable accuracy.
Every family, observed the late Dr Morrison, is required to have a
board, always hanging up in the house, and ready for the inspection of
authorised officers, on which the name of all persons, men, women, and
children, in the house are inscribed. This board is called Mun-pae,
"A door-tablet," because, where there are women and children within,
the officers are expected to take the account from the board, at the door.
Were all the inmates of a family faithfully inserted, the amount of the
population would of course be ascertained with great accuracy. But it
is said, this is not the case. Names are often omitted, and the officers
pass it over, either from neglect, or for some consideration given them by
the head of the family, who, according to his situation in the community,
has various reasons to represent his family fewer than it is. One reason
said to operate sometimes is, that in urgent cases a conscription of
third male, able to bear arms, has been made by the Government.
That, however, was an ancient regulation, and is not applicable to the
present dynasty, which keeps up a constant standing army, Others say,
that amongst the poor, who constitute the mass of the population of
every country, the Mun-pae, or account of persons given in, is generally
correct. To be the reverse, exposes them to informations and to much
trouble. This seems the more probable statement.
every
The government of so extensive an empire, swarming with its hun-
dreds of millions, must be an expensive affair. Du Halde, apparently
however without the means of exact accuracy, sets down the total
expenses of the imperial government in the round sum of 200,000,000
taels, or considerably over £50,000,000 of which only 10 millions,
reach Pekin, the balance being expended in the provinces. The sources
whence these monies come, are, a land tax, for which the land-owners:
268
not the tenants, are responsible; a tax on salt, which is a government
monopoly; certain revenues derived from tea and silks, which are also
monopolies to a limited extent; taxes on the transit of goods within the
empire: and customs on imports and exports. The government at this
moment appears to be hard pressed for means; and the difficulty of
fixing upon modes of increasing the revenue, is a pretty clear indication
that there are practical checks to the exercise of imperial authority,
which it is not thought prudent to disregard.
In whatever else a difference of opinion may exist respecting the
Chinese, all must agree that they are an original people. Their marked
peculiarities in manners and customs, the frame-work and administration
of their government, the idiosyncrasy of their education and educational
institutions, and their modes and implements of agricultural and mecha-
nical labour, -all proclaim their originality beyond doubt or cavil.
Whoever attentively examines this collection of Chinese curiosities,
which this volume but briefly describes, will need no further proof of the
ingenuity of the Chinese in arts and manufactures. In several branches
of labour, both agricultural and mechanical, which evidently originated
with themselves, they have never been surpassed; and in some, they are
unequalled by any other people. Without any claims to be considered a
scientific nation, the various contrivances by which they economize labour,
and force nature to become their handmaid, are many of them equally
simple, ingenious, and efficient.
The three inventions and discoveries which, in their results, have
(previously to the invention of steam) contributed more powerfully than
all other causes combined to give to modern society its peculiar form and
fashioning, and which are destined, instrumentally, to carry forward in
connection with steam power-to its utmost limit of perfection, the civi-
lization of the human race, first started into being in the Celestial
Empire; and, whatever mortification the statement may inflict upon our
vanity, there is much reason to suppose that those who, throughout
Christendom, are generally considered as the inventors of the art of
printing, the composition of gunpowder, and the magnetic needle and
mariner's compass, received their first promptings, and had their genius
quickened into activity, by information flowing, through different chan-
nels, from the springs of Eastern Asia.
269
FOREIGN INTERCOURSE WITH CHINA.
The ancients may be said to have had no knowledge of China; for,
though a few scattered gleams appear to have reached them from that
remote region, and one or two feeble efforts were made to obtain infor-
mation concerning its inhabitants, they were not sufficient to produce any
practical results. Yet, when Rome was still an infant, and the Grecian
philosophy among the things to be, China had produced a sage, second
only, in the long catalogue of heathen philosophers, to the illustrious
and pure minded Socrates.
Some Nestorians appear to have introduced Christianity into China, in
the year 635, but the world is indebted to them for no account of the
country, either in its physical or moral aspect. Two Arabians, in the
ninth century, visited and described it with considerable fulness. Much
contained in their itineraries is applicable to the Chinese of the present
day. Commercial relations of some importance existed then, and
subsequently, between China and Arabia. The Chinese appear to have
sought, in those early ages, commercial liaisons with several of the neigh-
bouring nations. Carpini, the first Catholic missionary to China, was
sent thither in 1246. He was kindly received, and sent back with a
friendly letter. Another missionary was sent in 1253, who met with a
like reception. About the same time the two Polos, Nicholas and
Matthew, reached the court of the Mongol conqueror, Coblai-Khan, by
whom they were most graciously received, and at their departure, invited
to return. They accordingly, in 1274, went back, taking young Marco
with them. This young man became a great favourite with the Khan,
and resided at his court seventeen years. He was the first European who
gave the world an account of China. His book was long considered
little more than a pleasant romance, but has since been proved to be
remarkably faithful and accurate. Its glowing pictures kindled the
imagination of the young Columbus, and fed for years his soaring
hopes.
The next Catholic missionary to China was Corvino. He went to
Pekin, was kindly received by the emperor, built a church by imperial
permission, and baptized several thousand converts. The missions
270
continued to flourish, and the missionaries were unmolested in their
labours, till they began to meddle with the government, and thus became
politically obnoxious.
The Portuguese were the first Europeans who traded to China. They
made their appearance there early in the sixteenth century; and were
followed by the Spaniards, Dutch, French, &c. The Russians have an
over-land commerce with China, but are not allowed to use ships. Their
dealings are restricted to the frontier station at Kiackta, in Tartary.
The earliest attempt made by the English to establish a trade with China,
was under Elizabeth, in 1596. The three ships, fitted out for this pur-
pose, were all wrecked on their outward voyage.
About forty years
later, a somewhat more successful effort was made by a fleet under the
command of Capt. Weddel; but the main object was defeated through
the jealousy and misrepresentations of the "Portingals." Numerous
attempts followed, with various success; but it was not until the begin-
ning of the last century that permission was obtained for establishing a
factory, and the trade fixed upon a permanent basis.
The first American vessel that went on a trading voyage to China,
sailed from New York, in 1784; but so rapidly did the trade thus
opened increase, that in 1789, there were fifteen American vessels at
Canton; a larger number than from any other country, except Great
Britain. During twenty-eight years, between 1805 and 1833 inclusive,
the whole number of arrivals of American vessels at the port of Canton,
was 896, giving an annual average of 32. The total estimated mea-
surement tonnage of these vessels was 500,000, averaging, therefore,
17,857 per annum. The entire value of the China trade, during the
above-mentioned period, may be stated, in round numbers, at 150,000,000,
dollars or over five millions and a quarter per annum, rather more than
a hundred millions of this sum have been paid in dollars and bills of
exchange. The bulk of the trade is in teas. Of these, twelve kinds are
known to the foreign commerce, six of black, and as many of green. A
great variety of other articles enter into the trade, but they form a
comparatively unimportant part of it. Opium is the chief import into
China.
Mr. Bridgman, in his "Description of Canton," estimates the whole
271
Mandates
number of vessels employed in the China trade, belonging to all the
different nations, at 140. "But the trade," he adds, "has always been
It is secured by no
carried on under circumstances peculiar to itself.
commercial treaties; it is regulated by no stipulated rules.
and edicts not a few there are on record; but they all emanate from one
party: still the trade lives, and, by that imperial favour which extends
to the ´four seas,' flourishes and enjoys no small degree of protection."
The foreign commerce with China, the land trade carried on by the
Russians alone excepted, is restricted to the port of Canton, and is
conducted, so far as the Chinese themselves are concerned, by a body of
licensed traders, called "Hong merchants." This body is called the
Co-hong, and its members pay roundly for the privilege of entering it. It
is not a joint stock company; each Hong enjoys his individual gains, yet
the whole Co-hong is made responsible for the debts of every member,
so far as they consist of government dues and obligations to foreigners.
These merchants generally amass large fortunes, and live like princes.
Houqua, the present head of the Co-hong, is supposed to be one of the
richest commoners in the world. His annual expenses exceed one
hundred thousand pounds sterling.
The factories, as the warehouse and residences of the foreign merchants
are called, are built on a plot of ground, in part reclaimed from the river,
having not more than 660 feet of frontage, with about 1000 feet of
depth. Within these narrow limits is conducted the whole foreign trade of
the Celestial Empire, amounting to from 30,000,000 to 40,000,000,
dollars, annually. The factories are all of granite or brick, and
present a handsome and substantial front. The ground on which they
stand, as also most of the buildings themselves, are owned by the Hong
merchants.
The Chinese have been, repeatedly, denounced in terms savouring
little of Christian forbearance and charity. In their business transac-
tions, they have been presented to our imagination as a nation of cheats;
in their bearing towards foreigners, as scornful and repulsive to the last
degree of supercilious self-complacency; and in their own social rela-
tions, as bereft of every noble sentiment and generous sympathy.
policy, especially of excluding foreign traders from all but a single port
The
272
of the empire, has been made the subject of the most acrimonious denun-
ciations. Far be it from us to enter the lists in defence of this policy;
nor will we take up the proffered gauntlet on the general question of
Chinese respectability and worth. But truth and justice are suitors at
the bar, and demand a few words in explanation of one or two points,
which seem not to be generally understood. We have already seen that
this people, at an early day, sought commercial connexions with various
of the neighbouring nations; that the Arabians traded freely with them
wherever they pleased; that the earliest European visitors were received
with marked kindness, and treated with extraordinary hospitality; and
that the Catholic missionaries had free admission to all parts, and made
and baptized converts without let or hindrance. These zealous and able
sectaries, were frequently promoted to the highest dignities of the
empire. They founded churches at their will; and hundreds of thousands
of Chinese were, nominally at least, through their exertions, converted
to the Christian faith. They continued in favour till they indiscreetly
began to tamper with government affairs, and attempted to undermine
the ancient institutions of the realm. No restrictions of place were
imposed upon those western merchants who first frequented the shores of
China. Every port was open to their enterprise, and they were not
required to confine their dealings to any defined spot or particular class
of merchants. But the burning jealousies and fierce wranglings perpet-
ually kept up between the subjects of the different European govern-
ments that sought to share in the rich gains of the China trade, roused
the suspicions of the Chinese, and inspired no very favourable opinion of
their character. The abominable arts to which the foreigners in former
times, under the temptations of a base cupidity, resorted to injure each
other, would seem almost to justify the epithet Fan-kweis, or "foreign
demons," applied to them by the natives. These circumstances, together
with various positive abuses of the liberties of trade at first freely
granted, caused the government to commence at length the work of
abridging the privileges of foreigners, and the result appears in the rigid
system of restrictions now in force.
If European and American traders may fairly blame the illiberality of
the Chinese, these have certainly just ground of complaint against them
273
Fif-
in the illegal practices to which their cupidity tempts them.
teen to twenty millions worth of opium has been for years, in defiance
of the laws and known wishes of the government annually emptied upon
the shores of China by Christian merchants!
Alas for missionary effort, so long as the grasping avarice of the
countries whence the missionaries come, sets at naught every Christian
obligation before the very eyes of the people whom it is sought to
convert! Most devoutly do we long for the auspicious day, when the
pure religion of Jesus, shall shed its sacred influences on every human
being; but we believe it will not come, till the principles of that religion
shall take a firmer hold upon the affections of those who profess to enjoy
it, and rear a mightier embankment around their sordid and stormy
passions. When the missionary shall find an auxiliary in the stain-
less life of every compatriot who visits the scene of his labours for
purposes of pleasure or of gain,-when he can point not only to the
pure maxims and sublime doctrines proclaimed by the Founder of his
faith, but to the clustering graces that adorn its professors, then indeed
will the day dawn, and the day-star of the millennium arise upon the
world!
PRINTED BY G. M'KEWAN, 9, GREAT WINCHESTER STREET, CITY.


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