Prints

From a sketch on the spot by Warner Varnham. Engraved by W.H. Capone. A view along the Pria Grande towards Penha Hill. The original text that accompanied this view of 1843 was: " The Pria or Praya Granda, is the most flattering surviving specimen of this emporium of Oriental trade. Approached from the water, this fine ambulatory presents a striking and agreeable appearance. A row of handsome houses,extending along the beach for upwards of seven hundred yards, is built in a cresent form, in obedience to the graceful and regular bend of the bay. In front, a spacious prominade is formed, on an artificial embankment faced with stone, interrupted, occasionally, by jetties for landing goods, and by steps for descending to the water. Here is the residence of the Portuguese governor, And here also is the English factory, plain substancial buildings; besides the custom-house, distinguished by the display of the Imperial flag in front. . .

Beyond the Praya Granda, a mixed assemblage of styles presents itself, including English houses, towers of Portuguese churches, Chinese temples, and domestic roofs, generally grotesque. The commerce of Macao will soon be transferred to Hong Kong, while that of Canton itself will be shared by the other open ports of the empire. Dullness therefore seems likely to reign at Macao, unbroken by any incidents of interest, if we exempt the annual immigration of Cantoneses families, during the sultry season in the great city, of which the Portuguese avail themselves by holding a grand carnival. This feast is celebrated with the utmost costliness and enthusiasm-balls, masques, concerts, spectacles, and all other amusements that minister to the pleasure of soft, southern Europe, are called in, to aid in giving effect to the Macao Carnival."