Design for Five Vases 1765 - 1790

This anonymous design for five vases from the 18th century is a striking example of the Chinoiserie style, a popular European art movement that embraced Chinese motifs and aesthetics. The design showcases the influence of East Asian artistic traditions in the depiction of the vases with figures in elegant blue and white patterns. This style, characterized by the adoption of Chinese decorative elements, was particularly prevalent in Europe during the 18th century. This piece, a watercolor on paper housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the enduring fascination with Chinese artistry and its impact on European design during this period.