Blue Willow Holland

Emerging in the 17th century, chinoiserie appropriated the aesthetics and imagery of popular East Asian design for European-made versions. Reflecting the exoticization of China, Japan and other countries in this era, the word directly translates from French to “Chinese-esque,” which reveals its shortcomings as a style of furniture and decor that often stereotypically and reductively mimics Asian culture rather than showcasing and paying tribute to its artistic traditions.

The enthusiastically decorative chinoiserie style was propelled by influential tastemakers including French King Louis XIV, whose Trianon de Porcelaine in 1670 was inspired by Chinese architecture. Expanded trade between the East and West led to a demand for porcelain, lacquer objects, silk and other goods, which further informed the fanciful furniture being crafted in Europe.

Artisans working in the chinoiserie style used materials and elements like pagoda shapes, bamboo, lacquer surfaces, bird and flower motifs and other interpretations of Asian design on pieces that were frequently set against vibrant wallcoverings. This whimsical approach yielded chinoiserie furniture that boasted dramatic flourishes drawing on the natural world and reflected the dominance of Rococo during the 18th century.

As chinoiserie was shaped by approximations of Asian design by European creators, it had regional variations, such as Chinese Chippendale in England where cabinets, chairs and tea tables had wooden fretwork designs and “japanned” surfaces intended to resemble lacquer work that was created in East Asia. In North America, furniture makers in Boston and New York integrated chinoiserie-painted scenes into Queen Anne furniture.

Antique chinoiserie furniture has continued to be fashionable, from its popularity with decorators of the Hollywood Regency era — James Mont, Tommi Parzinger, William Haines and Samuel Marx favored the style — to contemporary interior designers, although it brings with it a complex history.

Find a collection of chinoiserie bedroom furniture, cabinets, decorative objects and more on 1stDibs.

The unique graceful design and classic style of antique Delft pottery and faience make these pieces an exceptional addition to any dining room.

The popularity of the blue-and-white porcelain developed in 14th-century China inspired Delft and faience pottery in Europe. The global expansion of trade through the Dutch East India Company led to the import of numerous examples of Chinese porcelain, resulting in the creation of Dutch Delftware, which is the term generally used to describe the tin-glazed earthenware that Dutch potters used. There were other imitations of Chinese porcelain produced by ceramicists throughout Europe, but Delftware was the most successful. This iconic tradition — the subject of a 2020 exhibition at the Kunstmuseum den Haag​ ​— resembled Chinese porcelain but was more affordable.

True blue Delftware originates only from a single location: Delft in the Netherlands. These precious pieces pair well with French faience. Unlike Delft plates, Delft vases and other pieces of Delftware, French faience utilizes a lead-and-tin glaze. This earthenware has roots in late-16th-century France. French Provincial Delft and faience tend to feature snow-white lacquered surfaces with colorful painted images or floral designs.

In terms of elegance and versatility, Baroque Delft and faience always impress. The most extravagant and boldly hued pieces are Rococo Delft and faience. Plates, tureens and other objects made in this style are frequently ornate and intricately decorated, making them ideal for display. Modern Dutch design masters often incorporate vintage decor into their contemporary designs, and Delftware items are a popular choice.

Browse antique Delft pottery and faience now on 1stDibs.