CHINOISERIE? More or Less about the term.

I have never allowed a "word" intimidate me. (OK, maybe a mathematical term.) However, the term, "chinoiserie" could definitely be one that looks and sounds imposing. Allow me to break it down for you.

The word itself is French in origin and simply means "Chinese-esque". It basically refers to style of most anything that reflects Chinese artistic influence.

My history of furniture professor always said, "A well-designed area should incorporate some element of Chinese or Asian influence". In today's world of living and design "chinoiserie" covers a wide range and can apply to most ANYTHING from architecture, and accessories to textiles and decorative arts. Look around your home and in your closet...you might be a "chinoiserie " person after all1

Here are some wonderful examples from Pickwick Antiques.