Chinese begraafplaatsen c. 1660

Wouter Schouten made this drawing, "Chinese Begraafplaatsen," with pen and wash, likely during his travels in the 17th century. The drawing offers a glimpse into the artist's observations of Chinese burial grounds, revealing cultural practices and beliefs surrounding death and remembrance. The image depicts a landscape dotted with tombs and burial structures. Consider the visual codes at play here: the specific architectural styles of the tombs, the placement of graves within the landscape, and the activities of people tending to these sites. This work invites us to consider the social and economic conditions of the time; how might the rituals and customs surrounding death reflect social hierarchies or economic realities? How does this image inform or challenge Western perceptions of Chinese culture? Further research into travelogues, missionary accounts, and trade records from the period would shed light on the historical context of this image. By examining these sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural exchange and perceptions that shaped the artist's vision and the image's meaning.