Habit of the Emperor of China in 1667

by Thomas Jefferys

This stunning hand-colored engraving comes from the pioneering works of Thomas Jefferys, depicting the Western interest in the "Far East." This particular print was issued in London and provides an insight into the court of the Manchus during the early days of the Qing Dynasty.

In contrast to later editions that were mass-produced, the 1667 portrayal is distinct in its emphasis on the "habit" (dress) of the Emperor. Here we see the evolution of Chinese royal imagery through the eyes of Europeans, combining the elements of Orientalism with nascent details found in 17th-century maps and costumes.