Chinese afdeling op de Wereldtentoonstelling van 1878 1878

This photograph shows the Chinese exhibit at the 1878 World's Fair in Paris. The exhibit showcases an array of ceramic objects. These vases, pots, and decorative objects were made of clay, shaped by hand or on a wheel, then fired at high temperatures to create durable forms. What's fascinating is the sheer number of objects on display here. Each ceramic embodies countless hours of labor, from sourcing the clay to shaping, decorating, and firing. This photograph captures a moment of cultural exchange, but also reflects the complex dynamics of global trade. We must consider the social context, and how these meticulously crafted objects became commodities within an international marketplace. They bridge the divide between artistry and industry, inviting us to contemplate the relationship between making, meaning, and global exchange.