Watercolour painting was invented in China more that two thousand years ago, and brought to perfection by generations of master painters. The Chinese watercolour is far more than a simple representation of what the eye sees. It seeks to depict the essence of the subject, not its external appearance, and is an expression of belief in the harmony of all things. The observer is invited to share the artist's communion with nature and enter into his spiritual experience. Reproduced here is a range from medieval masterpieces to 19th century 'paintings for foreigners'.