Tianjin: More than 150 Italian artifacts at an exhibition in Tianjin have highlighted centuries-old cultural exchanges between China and Italy, showing how Chinese silk, porcelain, and decorative motifs influenced European art and tastes.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the exhibition, 'Crown of Glory: 18th-Century Italian Court Treasures from the House of Savoy,' was jointly presented by the Tianjin Museum, Tianjin Digital Art Museum, and Turin City Museum of Ancient Art in Palazzo Madama. It ran from February 10 to August 31.
Rather than focusing only on Italian royal splendor, the exhibition explored mutual influences between Chinese and European craftsmanship. A French court gown featuring Chinese silk and embroidery reflects the popularity of 'chinoiserie,' which became fashionable among European aristocrats and wealthy bourgeoisie by the mid-18th century. An ivory-colored men's robe made with Chinese silk, weaving, block printing, and hand painting also demonstrates the trend.
Chinese porcelain, silk, and lacquerware became increasingly popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, influencing art, fashion, and interior decoration. The 'East Meets West' section features Chinese-style porcelain, round fans, and bird-and-flower paintings. A Qianlong-period Guangcai porcelain plate bearing a Swedish coat of arms was commissioned by European collector Count Carl Gustaf Tessin.
Experts said the exchanges were reciprocal, with Chinese kilns producing porcelain to suit European tastes. More than 24,000 people visited the exhibition. Officials said the artifacts demonstrate historic cultural links along the Maritime Silk Road and offer a foundation for stronger contemporary China-Italy cultural cooperation.