A sketch of a Chinese comedian performing his part before the the British Ambassador, December 19, 1793, at Canton.
Tag: William Alexander
The costume of China, illustrated by William Alexander. Picturesque representations of the dress and manners of the English by William Alexander.

Auguste Racinet. The Costume History by Françoise Tétart-Vittu.
Racinet's Costume History is an invaluable reference for students, designers, artists, illustrators, and historians; and a rich source of inspiration for anyone with an interest in clothing and style. Originally published in France between 1876 and 1888, Auguste Racinet’s Le Costume historique was in its day the most wide-ranging and incisive study of clothing ever attempted.
Covering the world history of costume, dress, and style from antiquity through to the end of the 19th century, the six volume work remains completely unique in its scope and detail. “Some books just scream out to be bought; this is one of them.” ― Vogue.com

View of a waterman to a coach stand, carrying two pails of water.
At every stand for hackney-coaches in the metropolis, there is one or more persons termed watermen, whose occupation is to attend to the horses.
The traveling barge of Van-ta-zhin. Drawn by William Alexander, 1805.
The travelling Barge, of the Mandarin Van-tazhin, who attended the Embassy.

Textilepedia. The Complete Fabric Guide.
The Textile Manual is an encyclopaedia of textile information, from material to yarn, from fabric structure to the finishing process. Encompassing practical tips for a range of textiles and detailed visuals, this ultra-accessible manual is the perfect companion for fashion aficionados and aspiring fashion designers.
A military Mandarine. Portrait of Van-ta-zhin 1805.
His boots are of satin, with thick soles of paper: these are always worn by the mandarines and superior Chinese.
The usual dress of the farmers’ servants in the southern parts of England.
England 1813. These laborers are, in general, a hardy, robust class of men, and furnish the best soldiers in our armies.
Chinese peasants with children from the northern provinces.
A peasant with his wife and family. The feet of children are prevented from growing large. The Mother is in the dress of the northern provinces.
The usual dress of a upper Austrian peasant.
The usual dress of the Austrian peasants in the year 1813 is represented in this Plate.