Portrait of the Kangxi Emperor Reading by Unknown Artist. A formal Qing dynasty portrait of a man in a vibrant blue robe and red hat seated before bookshelves.

Portrait of the Kangxi Emperor Reading

Unknown Artist

1699 · Silk

A dignified imperial portrait of the Kangxi Emperor in scholarly repose, characterized by deep lapis blue tones and refined detail.

$238

For the selected configuration

From $129

1 frame size

Frame size
Frame color
Mount
Paper type
Glaze

Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A grounded artwork with confident presence with softened cool notes — brings a composed sense of weight.

Often works in
Study · Library · Office
Placement
Reads best as a confident vertical anchor
Walls
Benefits from light or mid-tone surroundings
Color notes
Deep burgundy, Rich brown, Warm beige

About the piece

This 1699 portrait from the Qing dynasty depicts the Kangxi Emperor seated in his study, a classic example of Chinese imperial portraiture. Painted on silk, the work captures the monarch's scholarly dedication, shown surrounded by traditional book cases while wearing a ceremonial red-topped hat and a striking blue surcoat. The meticulous rendering of his features and the balanced composition reflect the prestige and order of the imperial court.

More like this

The Battle of Ili

Contains disturbing content

Curated selection

The Battle of Ili

Jean Denis Attiret

This dynamic 18th-century court painting captures a high-energy cavalry battle set against a classically rendered mountain landscape.