GILT CHINOISERIE FIGURES
This piece is representative of the "Oriental Paradise" collection, which is one of the most popular export commodities. The piece is made from fine mud and finished with blazing and soft colors on black.
Drawn by a traveling European artist during the eighteenth and nineteenth century, the most unique feature of these porcelain wares are their richly imaginative sketches. His embellished designs depict scenes of life in China, Japan and Indo-China during his travels. One of his most noble works includes the scroll written by two weird dragons on which was written this proverb "Calm down when you are angry," "Beware of your words and expression," "Watch out when you are busy," and "Appreciate and admire your assets." The wise saying urges people to develop a good character and to practice thrift.
The most fabulous scene depicts a man enjoying himself on a swing suspended under a stone bridge in the royal palace. The artists portrayal of the surrounding scenes shows his vivid imagination. Both the birds, butterflies and flowers were drawn in exaggeration and grotesque proportions, even larger than human figures. Even though the people, their costumes and boats depicted are western, the scenes are so beautifully presented that they can aptly be described as the "Oriental Paradise."
Lacking a competent means of communication foreigners often perceived the Oriental cultures with unfamiliarity, mystery and curiosity. Observing these porcelain wares they were quickly attracted by their embellishment and often purchased them as souvenirs from the Orient.
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