Fine Art Poster
From $39
A giclée print on 200gsm matte fine art paper, using a twelve-colour process for accurate, fade-resistant colour. Supplied unframed, delivered flat or rolled.
Untitled (Shoulder Guard Flap, Metalwork and Textile) - Unknown Artist
Regular price
$39.00 USD
Sale price
$39.00 USD
Regular price
Archival giclée
Frames arrive ready to hang
Secure checkout
Made to order
Description
A detailed study of a Qing Dynasty shoulder guard flap, featuring intricate gilt copper dragon engravings, embroidered silk, and fur trim.
This object represents a component of ceremonial military armour from the Qing Dynasty. The construction combines functional metalwork with decorative textile elements, typical of high-status regalia intended for court or formal display. The primary structure consists of articulated gilt copper plates, which are engraved with dragon motifs. These plates provide both protection and a visual display of imperial authority, as the dragon is the traditional symbol of the Chinese emperor.
The central section features a circular silk panel, embroidered with a five-clawed dragon against a blue ground. This embroidery is secured by a series of evenly spaced brass studs, which create a rhythmic, geometric pattern across the surface. The edges are trimmed with fur, adding a tactile quality to the composition. The metal plates are joined in a manner that allows for flexibility, suggesting the piece was designed to be worn over the shoulder, likely as part of a larger suit of armour.
Technically, the work demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship found in Qing metalworking. The engraving on the copper plates is precise, with each dragon rendered in a style that balances stylised form with fluid movement. The contrast between the metallic sheen of the gilt copper and the soft texture of the silk and fur creates a visual balance. Such pieces were not merely utilitarian; they functioned as markers of rank and status within the imperial hierarchy. The geometric pattern of the silk backing, often referred to as a hemp-leaf or star pattern, provides a structured contrast to the organic, flowing lines of the dragon motifs. This item offers a glimpse into the material culture of the period, where military equipment was transformed into an expression of aesthetic refinement and political power.
Return policy
Because every print is made to order, we don't offer change-of-mind returns, refunds or exchanges. If your order arrives faulty, damaged or incorrect, we'll replace it free of charge — just contact us within 48 hours of delivery. See our refunds page for full details.
Shipping
We ship worldwide, printing at the production hub nearest to your delivery address. Delivery times and costs vary by destination — you'll see the options available to you at checkout.
Manufacturing
Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
Care and materials
Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
- Framed prints arrive ready to hang
Care & Cleaning
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
- Never use liquid cleaners on the print or canvas surface
- Keep in a dry, room-temperature space
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands
Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Complete The Look
Untitled (Shoulder Guard Flap, Metalwork and Textile) - Unknown Artist
Regular price
From $39.00 USD
Sale price
From $39.00 USD
Regular price
Fine Art Poster / Small Square (30x30 cm) / -
Artist Biography
Unknown Artist
Anonymity in art often stems from the loss of historical records rather than a choice by the creator. In 19th-century Morocco, early photography was frequently practised by visiting practitioners or local studios whose names were not always recorded on the final prints. Works by an Unknown Artist in this collection include Moroccan studio portraits and Japanese woodblock prints depicting the Battle of Pyongyang. These pieces illustrate how anonymous artists documented global events and personal identities across different continents during the same era.
The artistic approach of the Unknown Artist varies between the formal composition of the carte-de-visite and the narrative style of the war prints. In the Moroccan portraits, the focus rests on the subject's posture and attire against a neutral studio backdrop. The Japanese prints use bold lines and flat colours to depict military movements and naval victories. Despite the lack of a specific attribution, these works demonstrate a high level of technical skill in both lithography and woodblock carving.
Modern collectors often value anonymous works for their mystery and focus on the image itself. These prints provide a direct connection to history without the distraction of a famous name. They function as windows into the 19th-century world, from the quiet dignity of a young girl in a studio to the chaos of a distant conflict. These pieces offer a sense of discovery for those who appreciate the aesthetic qualities of vintage photography and historical illustration.
The artistic approach of the Unknown Artist varies between the formal composition of the carte-de-visite and the narrative style of the war prints. In the Moroccan portraits, the focus rests on the subject's posture and attire against a neutral studio backdrop. The Japanese prints use bold lines and flat colours to depict military movements and naval victories. Despite the lack of a specific attribution, these works demonstrate a high level of technical skill in both lithography and woodblock carving.
Modern collectors often value anonymous works for their mystery and focus on the image itself. These prints provide a direct connection to history without the distraction of a famous name. They function as windows into the 19th-century world, from the quiet dignity of a young girl in a studio to the chaos of a distant conflict. These pieces offer a sense of discovery for those who appreciate the aesthetic qualities of vintage photography and historical illustration.
Made to order
Choose your finish
Every piece is printed to order. These are the five finishes, and what makes each one different.
Fine Art Framed
From $119
The same fine art print in a solid wood frame with UV-protective acrylic glaze and rigid backing. Five frame colours. Arrives ready to hang.
Why Choose Us ?
Damage-free delivery guarantee
Fast Shipping
Museum-Quality Materials
You May Also Like