Culture & Lifestyle

Chinoiserie is a blend of elegant European designs with exotic Asian artistic traditions. Chinoiserie, from 'chinois' the French for Chinese, meaning 'after the Chinese taste'. It is a European interpretation, especially in the decorative arts, garden design, architecture, literature, theatre, and music. First appearing in the 17^th century, this trend was popularised in the 18^th century due to the rise in trade with China and the rest of East Asia.

French floral design went through many changes and styles during the Baroque period. During the Empire period, military symbolism was often used in arrangements, along with emblems and figures associated with the emperor. Joséphine Bonaparte (or known as Joséphine de Beauharnais) was influential during this time. The French Empress was the first wife of Emperor Napoleon I.

As it was a prosperous time in China during the Song Dynasty, scholars had the interest to appreciate and understand the beauty of scent. Coincidentally, late Song Dynasty coincided with the beginnings of the Renaissance in the West, and it was during this period where the art and culture of scent began to bloom.