Schrijftafel 1750 - 1800

Editor: Here we have a writing table, or *schrijftafel* as it's known in Dutch, created sometime between 1750 and 1800 by an anonymous artist. It's crafted from wood and held in the Rijksmuseum collection. It gives such a formal, ornamental presence; what can you tell us about it? Curator: Well, it speaks volumes about the 18th-century fascination with Asian art and design, often termed "chinoiserie" or "orientalism" as decorative approaches. Consider how it's functioning as both a usable table and a status symbol of refined taste. To what extent does its aesthetic, derived from selective interpretations of Asian visual traditions, serve to reinforce existing social hierarchies in Europe? Editor: That's a fascinating point. I was so drawn to the decorative elements, but now I’m seeing how this piece probably signified wealth and cultural appreciation. The little landscape scene across the top feels less like pure artistry and more like curated exoticism. Curator: Precisely! Think about the accessibility of such "exotic" goods. Who possessed the power to commission or acquire such an item? The market and trade networks around these goods highlights complex social and political interactions. Editor: It's eye-opening to think about it not just as a pretty piece, but within that network of power and influence. So much is hidden behind the object. Curator: And, importantly, how this object contributes to forming a view of other cultures, sometimes based on fantasy more than reality. Studying these decorative objects helps us deconstruct power dynamics embedded in historical design trends. Editor: I’ll definitely look at other “orientalist” art with fresh eyes, keeping that cultural power dynamic in mind. Thanks!