Examples of Chinese ornament, Pl.82
A hand-painted replica of Owen Jones’s masterpiece Examples of Chinese ornament, Pl.82, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
"Examples of Chinese Ornament, Pl. 82" is a plate from the influential design book The Grammar of Ornament, authored by Owen Jones and first published in 1856. Owen Jones (1809–1874) was a British architect and designer known for his contributions to design theory and his efforts to document and promote the decorative arts of various cultures. The Grammar of Ornament is a comprehensive collection of decorative patterns and motifs from around the world, intended to serve as a resource for designers and artists.
Plate 82 specifically showcases examples of Chinese ornamentation, reflecting Jones's interest in the artistic traditions of China. The designs in this plate are characterized by intricate patterns, symmetry, and the use of vibrant colors, which are hallmarks of traditional Chinese decorative art. The motifs often include floral and geometric elements, as well as stylized representations of natural forms, which are common in Chinese design. These patterns were likely inspired by Chinese ceramics, textiles, and architectural details, which were becoming increasingly known in Europe during the 19th century due to expanding trade and cultural exchange.
Jones's work aimed to highlight the aesthetic and structural principles of design from different cultures, emphasizing the importance of studying and respecting these traditions. In the case of Chinese ornament, he admired the balance, harmony, and disciplined use of color, which he believed could serve as valuable lessons for contemporary Western designers. The plate is part of a broader effort in The Grammar of Ornament to document and celebrate the diversity of global decorative arts, while also providing practical inspiration for modern design.
The illustrations in Plate 82, like others in the book, were created using chromolithography, a then-innovative printing technique that allowed for the reproduction of vivid, multi-colored images. This method was essential for accurately capturing the intricate details and vibrant hues of the original designs. The book as a whole was groundbreaking in its use of this technology and remains a significant reference for the study of design history.
While the specific sources or artifacts that Jones used as references for Plate 82 are not detailed in the book, his work reflects the 19th-century European fascination with Chinese art and culture, often referred to as "Chinoiserie." However, unlike earlier, more fanciful interpretations of Chinese design, Jones sought to present authentic examples, grounded in careful study and observation.
The Grammar of Ornament and its plates, including Plate 82, continue to be studied and appreciated for their historical and artistic value, as well as their role in shaping modern design principles.
