European missionaries visited China from the mid- Ming Dynasty, bringing knowledge of philosophy, religion, science, technology and art from China back to Europe. Thus, during the flourishing period from Kang Xi to the Qian Long emperors, from the beginning of the 17th Century to the end of the 18th Century, there was widespread enthusiasm for ‘Chinoiserie’ across Europe. Europeans at the time appreciated and pursued Chinese goods, and were fond of Chinese artistic styles and customs, a trend permeating every aspect of European life.

Jointly organised by the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao S.A.R. Government and the Macao Museum, this exhibition primarily introduces the formation and impact of ‘Chinoiserie’ on France, displaying the knowledge and pursuit of Europeans towards Chinese culture. The exhibits are from Les Arts Décoratifs -Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Paris), Musée du Louvre-Département des Arts Graphiques, Cité de la Céramique- Sèvres et Limoges, Musée des Beaux-Arts et d’Archéologie (Besançon), and Wynn Resorts (Macau) S.A., embracing some 80 art treasures from oil paintings to engraving, ceramics and tapestries, etc.