London
silversmiths specialized in flat-chased Chinoiserie scenes, which were created
by stamping a pattern into the silver with small sharp tools. The motifs were
directly copied from imported Asian goods, English design books, and maybe even
theatrical set designs. The Chinoiserie objects shown here, however, also include
unmistakably English imagery. While some figures wear Asian headgear and moustaches,
their knee-length trousers match English fashion at the time. Similarly, the
tankard seen here features strange birds and extraordinary foliage alongside
a European-style double-tiered fountain. This mug and gold-washed cup both illustrate
a tall man followed by a turbaned companion carrying a bamboo parasol, a popular
Chinoiserie motif that connotes wealth and power.
Tankard,
1683
Marked "TC"
London, England
Silver with flat-chased decoration
Lent by a private collection
Mug,
1683
George Garthorne
London, England
Silver with flat-chased decoration
Lent by a private collection
Chocolate
Cup, 1686
Marked "TEB"
Silver with flat-chased decoration
Lent by a private collection
Two-Handled
Cup, 1684
Robert Cooper
Silver gilt with flat-chased decoration
Lent by a private collection
Monteith,
1687
Marked "TA"
London, England
Silver with flat-chased decoration
Lent by a private collection