Painting, portrait of Chinese ancestors

Portraits of Chinese ancestors or dignitaries. This painting is handmade using the giclée technique on loose canvas for framing. It is painted in oil with numerous specific details. This is a copy of an original and was made in the second half of the 20th century. Beautiful harmony of red colors. The photos may show some slight differences in shade compared to the original. Excellent condition with some wear consistent with age. The canvas has undergone a slight restoration visible on the back along one lower edge (see photo), but barely noticeable on the painted side. External dimensions: 103 cm x 68 cm The portraits themselves measure 75.5 cm x 57 cm (measurements taken within the black border). This type of painting adheres to very strict codified criteria: Portraits of Chinese ancestors depict people in a static pose, wearing festive attire. The hands and feet of women are never depicted in the painting. The luxurious costumes and settings are intended to embellish reality in order to bring prosperity to descendants. Facial expressions always remain neutral. They are always painted in a frontal view and in ceremonial attire. These portraits can represent several generations, a clan, a couple, or a single person. The Chinese displayed these canvases in a dedicated space in their homes, and sometimes they reserved an entire room for ancestor worship. This worship was an important part of Chinese culture: people feel a deep connection with their ancestors, who can ensure health, prosperity, longevity, and offspring. They can also return to haunt the living. In ancient China, it was believed that the soul could be transformed into a portrait. Paintings like this one were executed with great detail.