When you hear the term Chinoiserie style for the first time, you might think it’s of Chinese origin. But this is not true. Although inspired by the East Asian traditional arts and designs, chinoiserie as a style actually originated from Europe and is globally accepted as one of the most creative and stylish designs of all times. The term originated from the word Chinois which means Chinese in French.
- A Short History of Chinoiserie
Chinoiserie first appeared in the 17th century, but the idea had begun way earlier during the Marco Polo times, an Italian Explorer in the 14th century. At a time when international travel was unheard of, the Europeans had very limited knowledge about the Chinese way of life, but that did not water down their interest in the culture. Instead, their respect and fascination for China continued to grow even more as they learned more about the Chinese traditions, thanks to the few explorers who were able to tour China. Through their narrations, these explorers were able to provide better insights into the Chinese culture, inspiring the creation of the chinoiserie style as a result.
Rustichello da Pisa, a writer, and Marco Polo, a traveler, were the two first people to inspire the chinoiserie works of art. The two men shared a prison cell at some point, and it’s during this time that Marco Polo shared with Rustichello stories about his journey experience together with his father in China. Rustichello later narrated these stories in his famous book “The Travels of Marco Polo, which also goes by the titles; “Book of the Marvels of the World “” Description of the World”, and several other titles depending on the translation.
Although most Europeans were happy with its evolution, the style did not peak until the mid 18th century through its association with the Rococo and Baroque styles and the increased importation of Chinese goods to the European markets by the Swedish, English, French, and Dutch East India companies. But that was not without criticism. Some people felt that the style lacked taste, creativity, reason, morals, order and that it was a mockery to the real Chinese art and design. What followed was a decline in its popularity, especially after the death of King George IV in 1830, but again it gained stability in the late 19th century. Despite the ups and downs, chinoiserie works of art continued to grow in popularity and were persistent all through to the 20th century, thanks to Prince Albert, who made it more accessible.
Today, chinoiserie takes different forms and designs and is one of the most cherished styles in interior décor available at the Vault Sydney. You will see on fabrics, wallpapers, porcelains, paintings, and even silk screens.
- Main Characteristics of the Chinoiserie Style
- Dragons
In Chinese mythology, dragons symbolize strength and luck. They are mostly seen on fabrics, silkscreens, ceramics, and other types of décor.
- Foo Dogs
Foo dogs are known as Shi in Chinese, meaning “lion.” They are one of the most popular motifs, and they appear in twos (Male and Female) in chinoiserie style. Foo dogs were believed to discourage or bar negative energy and were, for that reason, a common sight outside temples and palaces.
- Natural Sceneries
Natural sceneries that mainly featured floral motifs, exotic birds, and pavilions were also popular in chinoiserie style. The handmade but expensive screens and wallpapers were the two most favorite designs for the Europeans.
- Pagodas
Pagodas are another feature of the chinoiserie style that formed an integral part of the East Asian tradition. They originated in India and were mainly used to serve religious purposes. Pagodas made their way to China through the spread of Buddhism to become part of the Chinese culture.
- Chinoiserie Style: Materials and Furnishings
- Furnishings
Chinoiserie style is available on everything. You can spot it on furniture, wallpapers, and any other decorative objects. Graceful lines mimicking pagoda tiers and fretwork are the most popular furnishings designs you can spot.
- Materials
Lacquered wood and faux bamboo are the two most popular materials in the chinoiserie style. Lacquerware pieces, in particular, are detailed and have to go through a slow but thorough creation process which involves
- Coating several layers on the furniture pieces using tree sap
Ii. Letting the sap to harden to turn into resin and give the furniture a shiny look
Iii. Artisans using handy works to do the finishing, such as painting scenes, intricate carvings, or inlay details.
- Chinoiserie Style: Ceramics
Producing Chinese porcelain and ceramics requires a high level of both skill and technique. That’s why ceramics are the most valuable pieces in the chinoiserie style. It also explains why the Europeans were only able to copy the designs but could not match the quality of artwork by the Chinese. White Ming and traditional are the two most popular designs on pieces such as lampstands, vases, tea sets, jars, etc.
Final Thoughts
Chinoiserie is one of the oldest and the most stylish designs in modern décor. It is unique, inspirational, brings out a feeling of nature and a sense of timelessness in a home. It is the ideal style to go for to get that luxurious touch you are looking for from interior decor
