Project « The popularity and accessibility of Asian art in Europe (1850-1950) »

Belgians encountered Asian art at the turn of the century at universal exhibitions, through pieces sent over by foreign national committees. The items sent to these incredible events were selected by the political powers to establish their country’s image on the international scene.

But the presence of many Asian objects in the more intimate settings of private homes, both aristocratic and bourgeois, also helped to forge a certain notion of Asia.

Trade in Asian antiquities developed Europe-wide, with many Brussels and Paris antique dealers having clients in several European cities.

Researchers have focused their work on museum collections and paid less attention to how Asian art grew in popularity. This project is investigating whether the appeal of China and Japan was part of a late Japonisme movement and also the role played by the associations and exhibitions, but also individuals, collectors and dealers, in furthering the knowledge of Asian art in Europe.