Kabinet met Europees lakwerk met op de kastdeuren jachttaferelen in een landschap met huizen. c. 1710 - 1720

Editor: Here we have a cabinet made of European lacquer, dating from around 1710 to 1720. I am struck by the black and gold color scheme and the very detailed hunting scenes and landscapes on the doors and drawers. What historical factors would have influenced this piece? Curator: Well, this cabinet really speaks to the era’s fascination with global trade and cultural exchange. It's a prime example of "chinoiserie," a European interpretation and imitation of East Asian artistic styles, reflecting Europe's encounter with, and often romanticized view of, the East. Note the hunting scenes adapted in the style of Japanese or Chinese lacquerware. What does that tell you? Editor: It makes me wonder about the role of such objects in the European upper class. Were they status symbols or did they reflect a genuine interest in other cultures, or maybe both? Curator: Exactly! The materials themselves, and the craftsmanship required, indicated wealth and sophistication. But it goes deeper. Owning such pieces demonstrated a worldliness, suggesting an engagement with a wider world made possible by expanding trade routes. However, we need to consider the power dynamics inherent in this kind of appropriation. What isn't visible is the colonial history underpinning this seemingly harmless 'cultural exchange'. Editor: So, beyond the aesthetics, this cabinet embodies a complicated history of trade, colonialism, and cultural appropriation. It also gives an intimate look into the interests and mindset of wealthy Europeans during the Baroque period. It's quite interesting to consider. Curator: Precisely. This piece exemplifies the complicated relationship early modern Europeans had with other parts of the world, as well as how those relationships manifested materially.