China Trade Paintings. Floral still life gouache on pith paper with original silk ribbon border, set of seven, mid 19th century, these small paintings were usually sold in sets of a dozen or more and purchased by western tourists. The subjects for pith paper watercolors were typically the Emperor and his court, theatre scenes, birds, flowers, boats, tea culture, ports and landscapes. Flowers are among the most desirable. Framed 6-1/2"x9".