Dorm Dec Wednesdays: Chinoiserie

Chinoiserie is a French word describing a European reinterpretation of Chinese influence.

Chinoiserie, a French term, signifying "Chinese-esque", refers to a recurring theme in European artistic styles since the 17th century, which reflect Chinese artistic influences.  It is characterized by the use of fanciful imagery of an imaginary China, by asymmetry in format & whimsical contrasts of scale, & by the attempts of imitate Chinese porcelain & the use of lacquer-like materials & decoration. - Wikepedia

The Chinese Garden by Francois Boucher

This is a great style to use in addition to other styles in your home.  Using it as an accent piece will complement other styles in a room.  Use a piece in a common color scheme so as not to make the pattern stand out. Use it on pillows in a formal dinning room, on your family room couch, or your bed, complement the plates displayed in your cabinets/walls with a bright pattern, & drink your morning coffee from a fun Chinoiserie coffee cup. 

 I will tell you that you can find some really neat Chinese inspired decor at places like TJ Maxx, Marshals, Big Lots, Roses, Ross & AJ Wright -- all discount stores which I love!  These stores are perfect for tight budgets (ahem...Dorm Dec....ahem) & perfect for little accents for apartments or big accents for homes.

You know how I love etsy, so here are some Chinoiserie items:

1. This Chinese Lantern Print from Walrus Studio would look great in a bright common room or a bedroom.
2. A reversible pillow in a Chinese inspired fabric from Cristina Makes Things.  Made from fabric from sustainable resources & reversing to a plaid back, this pillow is great for a small chair in an entryway.
3. This cool blue print of an original gouache painting in Anne Chovie's shop is just the right amount of pop to be a great accent.  There is an option to have this print on canvas, too!
4. Finally are these two 18" pillows from Willa Skye Home.  I love the bright & bold pattern! These pillows make a bolder statement than the pillow from Cristina Makes Things. Each are a specific style so choose accordingly!

Do you have a favorite artistic style or period in art? And, have you used this Chinoiserie pattern in your home or apartment now?

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