Antique and collectible history / Japonism

Origins Of Damascene And Chokin Adornments As Seen On Vintage Japanese Powder Compacts

Origins Of Damascene And Chokin Adornments As Seen On Vintage Japanese Powder Compacts

The term damascene is said to be English and derived from the view that this sort of decoration resembles damask silk. This technique originated in Syria, Western Asia. Some hold the opinion that the term damascene derives from the name of Syria’s capital city, Damascus. It is believed that the process of creating damascene adornments was first practiced over 1,500 years ago. The people of the Orient regard damascene as a symbol of good fortune. 
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Antique French Silver Japonisme Geisha Locket

The French Fascination For Japanese Culture, Japonisme And The Mysterious Geisha Locket

 The word Japonism (from the French word Japonisme) is the influence of Japanese aesthetics, art, and fashion on Western culture. The term is used particularly to refer to Japanese influence on European art, most notably the Impressionist Movement. In France Japonisme referred to a style of French design found in the fine arts and it was a natural progression that this country's master silversmiths would be inspired by this exotic theme to create the most coveted objet d'art. 
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