Examples of Chinese ornament, Pl.32 (1867)

We are delighted to present "Examples of Chinese Ornament, Pl.32" (1867), a mesmerizing work by the renowned designer and theorist Owen Jones. This stunning piece belongs to his significant publication "The Grammar of Chinese Ornament," which aimed to inspire and educate Western artists and designers by documenting traditional Chinese decorative arts.The painting reveals an intricate mandala-like design that captivates the viewer with its complexity and elegance. At the center, a detailed rosette forms the heart of the design, featuring precise geometry and a harmonious balance of forms and colors. Surrounding this focal point, layers of ornate patterns and motifs cascade outward, each ring offering a new visual feast of vibrant hues and fluid shapes.Soft pastels and bold, deep tones work together in harmony, emphasizing the flamboyant yet sophisticated palette typical of Chinese ornamentation. Figurative elements resembling stylized floral and foliar motifs integrate seamlessly with abstract geometrical shapes, illustrating the skillful blend of natural inspiration and artistic abstraction that characterizes traditional Chinese art.This painting not only showcases Owen Jones' admiration for and interpretation of Chinese ornament but also serves as an invitation to appreciate the universal language of beauty and design that transcends cultural boundaries.