(2) Gouache on Paper Paintings of Chinese Junks. Pair of gouache on paper illustrations of Chinese sailing vessels. Unsigned.

Overall Size: 9 1/4 x 7 in.
Sight Size: 6 1/4 x 4 in.

A Chinese junk is a traditional sailing vessel with a history stretching back over a thousand years, notable for its distinctive design and remarkable seaworthiness. Characterized by a flat-bottomed hull, high stern, and multiple masts rigged with fully battened sails, junks were used for everything from river transport to long ocean voyages. The battened sails, often made of bamboo and cloth, allow for excellent maneuverability and stability, even in strong winds. Their compartmentalized hulls improve buoyancy and reduce the risk of sinking, while the shallow draft enables navigation in both deep seas and shallow rivers. Beyond their practical advantages, junks also feature ornate carvings and decorative elements, reflecting a blend of utility and aesthetic tradition that has made them an enduring symbol of Chinese maritime ingenuity.

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