Saucer 1731 - 1743

This is a delicate porcelain saucer, imagined by Cornelis Pronk in the 18th century, at a time when Europe was captivated by the idea of the 'Orient'. Here, Pronk offers a window into his, and broader society's, fascination with Asian cultures. The scene, rendered in meticulous detail, depicts figures in what Europeans imagined to be traditional Chinese dress, surrounded by stylized flora and fauna. But look closer, and we can see this is not a straightforward depiction of the East, but a Western interpretation, filtered through the lens of colonial desire and projection. The image invites us to consider the power dynamics inherent in cross-cultural representation. Who is telling the story, and whose perspective is centered? In its delicate lines and exotic imagery, the saucer embodies both admiration and appropriation, reflecting the complex and often contradictory relationship between Europe and the East during this period. It serves as a reminder of the importance of critically examining the stories we tell ourselves about each other, and the world.