Story Title

The art of Asia has been prized in England since the early Medieval period when fine porcelain and silks made their way to the country along the Silk Road and across Europe. Their beauty and rarity meant they found their way into the collections of royalty and the aristocracy. The establishment of trading companies in the 17th century led to a great widening of trade and an even greater fascination with the arts of Asia. A passion for chinoiserie in England began in the late 17th century, in silver most notably with pieces decorated with flat chased figures, birds and foliage in a style inspired by Chinese themes. It was at that time that silver manufactured in China began to be brought back to England.