Look to the East: Decorative Arts and Orientalism, 1870–1920

Look to the East: Decorative Arts and Orientalism, 1870–1920 explores the cultures of “the East” or “the Orient”—including North Africa, the Middle East, India, China, and Japan—and their influence on Western artists and designers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

More than 40 works of art showcase exotic forms, materials, techniques, and ornament created from 1870 to 1920. The selections comprise American and European decorative arts from the Museum’s collection. Moorish-style ceramics, Indian “Paisley” shawls, Japoniste silver, and Chinese-inspired bamboo furniture are just some of the elegant objects on view. Among the names represented are Gorham Manufacturing Company, Herter Brothers, Rookwood Pottery, Tiffany & Company, and Worcester Porcelain Manufactory.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website