Chinoiserie: China as Source of Inspiration for European Art, from the 13th to 19th Centuries

This book offers a systematic exploration of Chinoiserie, tracing the spread and evolution of this European artistic trend from the late 13th to the 19th century. It begins with the initial introduction of Eastern elements during the Marco Polo era, followed by the rise of exotic trends in the 16th and 17th centuries. The study focuses particularly on the 18th century, examining how regions like France, England, Italy, Spain, and Germany absorbed and reinterpreted Chinese artistic elements. Through chronological and comparative regional analysis, enriched with visual and textual materials, the book charts Europe's journey from imitation to the localised adaptation of Chinese and broader Far Eastern culture. It clarifies the historical context of this significant cross - cultural phenomenon. Selected for the "2022 China Central TV Book Recommendations" list, this work uses accompanying images and text to outline the complete developmental trajectory of Chinoiserie in Europe.