Hinen-Kou, tambour chinois before 1828

This sketch of a Chinese tambourine was made by Pierre Félix van Doren, though we don't know exactly when. Van Doren lived through a period of intense colonial engagement with Asia, and this drawing reflects a Western fascination with Chinese culture. The term "chinoiserie" comes to mind when regarding this piece, hinting at the appropriation and reimagining of Eastern aesthetics by the West. The artist seems less interested in accurately portraying a Chinese instrument than in creating an exoticized version of it. It invites us to consider the power dynamics inherent in cultural exchange, who has the authority to represent whom, and for what purposes. Though seemingly simple, this sketch encapsulates complex themes of cultural appropriation, representation, and the gaze. It serves as a reminder of the intricate ways in which art can both reflect and shape our understanding of one another.