Chinoiserie Furniture

The word Chinoiserie comes from the French word Chinois, meaning "Chinese" and Chinoiserie really means "Chinese-esque." This design style is the European interpretation and imitation of Chinese & East Asian artistic traditions, especially in the decorative arts, garden design, architecture, literature, theater, musical performances and of course our first love, furniture. First appearing in the 17th century, this trend was popularized in the 18th century due to the rise in trade with China and East Asia. As a style, chinoiserie is related to the Rococo style. Both styles are characterized by exuberant decoration, asymmetry, a focus on materials, and stylized nature and subject matter that focuses on leisure and pleasure, while chinoiserie focuses on subjects that were thought to be "Chinese." This decorative furniture style has been popular for so long, you can find it in classic 18th century antiques but also as in influence in Mid-Century modern pieces. Shop our Chinoiserie furniture pieces below from Decorative Crafts, and one-of-a-kind antiques.