[Book of different species of birds, flowers, plants, and trophies of China] 1710 - 1772

Editor: This delicate rendering is from a book titled "Book of different species of birds, flowers, plants, and trophies of China," made between 1710 and 1772 by Gabriel Huquier. The soft pencil lines and carefully placed flora and fauna create a calm and serene feeling for me. What strikes you when you look at this, perhaps, somewhat whimsical, page? Curator: Well, my dear, it whispers stories of trade and cultural fascination. Doesn't it make you wonder about the eyes through which Europe saw China then? This isn't just a drawing of birds and plants; it's a curated collection of observations viewed through the lens of "Orientalism." Huquier wasn't necessarily aiming for botanical accuracy, but rather capturing a romantic vision, wasn't he? A very fanciful take. Editor: Orientalism? So, not necessarily true to life? Curator: Exactly! Notice the composition – a delightful, slightly fantastical landscape populated with exotic creatures and stylized foliage. Are those flowers and fruits precisely rendered? Or are they imagined? A delightful fusion of reality and fantasy designed to entice and perhaps mystify its European audience. And, does that impact your original perception of serenity now that you see the…intent? Editor: That's fascinating! Knowing the context shifts everything. The piece becomes more complex, highlighting how artistic representations can reflect cultural biases, while presenting knowledge about a country that Westerners have not explored. It shows so much of what they believe a far away country is. I’ll never look at this work the same way. Curator: Ah, the beauty of context! Art is a mirror, reflecting not only what we see but also who we are, and when we lived. Now, if we look carefully, are those the types of birds you expect? And do they co-exist harmoniously?