The Toy Peddler of Dupont Street, Chinatown, S.F. 1905

Mian Situ unveils the Asian American experience with the same fine art mastery and passion that made Howard Terpning a legend for his study of the Native American. Whether an epic work or intimate portrait, Situ’s art conveys the often-overwhelming experience of emigrating and opening and becoming a part of a new world.

Dupont Street, San Francisco ― before the earthquake and fire ― was the heart of Chinatown. Just as Chinese street merchants would venture throughout the city, others would come to Chinatown to ply their wares. And no one drew a crowd like the toy peddler. Children and adults alike were drawn to his beautiful, handmade creations. Is there a birthday coming? Is it almost Christmas! Surely there must be some celebration to dictate a purchase.

The exchange of goods and services between the city’s two cultures dominant were the first steps on the long road of assimilation of the Chinese into America’s society. Situ’s turn-of-the-century historical masterpieces such as this Limited Edition Fine Art Canvas capture the vivid energy of this period and its people with beauty and grace. For the collector of important American historical art, they also offer a rare glimpse and insight into this thriving cultural crossroad where the East meets West.