Length of hand-painted silk

Chinese, possibly Canton, for the European market

18th century

Not on view

The wealthy throughout Europe adored Chinese silks, which were exported in massive numbers by the Spanish, the Portuguese and the British. Finely woven, and delicately painted by hand with exquisite floral motifs, designed to resonate with European taste, this type of patterning was described as “sprigged” in trade records. Glossy taffetas like this were used in Europe as dress fabric and as wall hangings.

Artwork Details

Object Information

Overview

Provenance

Title: Length of hand-painted silk
Date: 18th century
Culture: Chinese, possibly Canton, for the European market
Medium: Silk, painted
Dimensions: L. 65 x W. 20 inches
165.1 x 50.8 cm
Classification: Textiles-Painted
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1936
Object Number: 36.142
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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Designer Designed by Jean Démosthène Dugourc
Manufactory Woven by Maison Pernon et Cie.– Camille Pernon (French, 1753 – 1808)
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