chinoiserie

[ sheen-wah-zuh-ree, -wah-zuh-ree; French shee-nwazuh-ree ]

noun

, (sometimes initial capital letter)

, plural chi·noi·se·ries [sheen-wah-z, uh, -, reez, -, wah, -z, uh, -reez, shee-nw, a, z, uh, -, ree]

1. a style of ornamentation current chiefly in the 18th century in Europe, characterized by intricate patterns and an extensive use of motifs identified as Chinese.
2. an object decorated in this style or an example of this style:

   The clock was an interesting chinoiserie.

chinoiserie

/ -ˈwɑːzərɪ; ʃiːnˌwɑːzəˈriː /

noun

1. a style of decorative or fine art based on imitations of Chinese motifs
2. an object or objects in this style

Word History and Origins

Origin of chinoiserie¹

1880–85; < French, equivalent to chinois Chinese + -erie -ery

Word History and Origins

Origin of chinoiserie¹

French, from chinois Chinese ; see -ery

Example Sentences

Against the backdrop of a fresh blue and white chinoiserie art piece, this sofa becomes the focal point, commanding attention.

From Seattle Times

The console is topped with traditional elements; a collection of blue chinoiserie taking center stage, including a tiny delicate tea set that has been in her family for years.

From Seattle Times

Describing chinoiserie as derivative of multiple cultures, she said she hoped her own patterns would foster an appreciation for historic Korean art and return to honoring “the true roots” of Asian art.

From Seattle Times

The Etsy store Sea and Stable has turned oyster shells into blue decoupage chinoiserie jewelry holders and trinket bowls.

From Seattle Times

In Europe, the popularity of chinoiserie and toile fabrics depicting scenes of Asian domesticity, literally turned Chinese people into decorative objects.

From Washington Post