Památky středních Čech 2022, 36(1):1-11 | DOI: 10.56112/psc.2022.1.01

Chinese Woodblock Prints on the Walls at Veltrusy Manor

Lucie Olivová

Seminář čínských studií - Centrum asijských studií, Filosofická fakulta MU, Brno (Dept. of Chinese Studies - Center of Asian Studies, Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University, Brno)

The article deals with Chinese woodblock prints worked into the wallpaper in the 'small cabinet' and the 'count's study' at Veltrusy Manor (Mělník District). The author not only views them as examples of Chinese art, but also clarifies their position within the Rococo interior, stating that they are rarely preserved, numerous collections of Suzhou woodblock prints from the second quarter of the 18th century that are based on their domestic tradition. Moreover, the prints borrow some European painting techniques such as shading and even the illusive trompe l'oeil technique on the notional compartments of still lifes. The author further explains the presence of Chinese woodblock prints in 18th century Europe and lists many other places, especially in England and Sweden, where duplicate artefacts have survived.

Keywords: Veltrusy Manor; 18th century; Chinese woodblock prints; chinoiserie; chaekgeori; Ding Liangxian

Published: June 15, 2022  Show citation