Ontvangstceremonie bij de Chinezen 1682 - 1733

"Ontvangstceremonie bij de Chinezen" was etched by Romeyn de Hooghe in the Netherlands, likely in the late 17th century. It reflects the Dutch Republic's growing fascination with and misconceptions about the Far East. De Hooghe's print blends actual observations with imagined details, presenting a somewhat orientalist view of Chinese customs. The image creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references and historical associations. The Dutch East India Company's trade relations with China fueled public curiosity and shaped artistic representations. The print also offers a glimpse into the institutional history of Dutch printmaking, highlighting the role of artists like de Hooghe in disseminating knowledge and shaping public opinion. Through archival research and careful analysis, we can better understand the social and cultural contexts that influenced this artwork and its reception. Art is always contingent on social and institutional context.