Another Item from Over the Sea: Ornamental Lathes at the Qing Court
Resource
國立臺灣大學美術史研究集刊, 32, 171-238
Journal
國立臺灣大學美術史研究集刊
Journal Issue
32
Pages
171-238+319
Date Issued
2012-03
Date
2012-03
Author(s)
Abstract
The ornamental lathe/ rose engine is an interesting example of the historical exchanges between China and the West. Although sufficient textual and physical evidence survives to document the historical use of the tool at the Qing court, the subject has largely escaped scholarly attention. This essay discusses the transmission of the Western ornamental lathe and associated technology to the Qing court as a context for a few broader observations and suggestions for future research. Gathering all available evidence and contextual data, the essay investigates the role that the Western lathe played in the Qing court and the evidence that it and related works of art supply for our understanding of artistic and technological exchange between East and West in the eighteenth century. Art historians are particularly interested in manifestations of creativity and the influence of related scientific knowledge, technology, and tools on the development of craft productions. What kind of creativity is manifested by the turning ivory works of the High Qing? How did the introduction of Western lathes and related scientific knowledge and technology support such creative manufactures? In terms of the history of Chinese bamboo, wood, and ivory arts, what changes did the introduction of the ornamental lathe stimulate? What role did it play in the complicated relationships between Guangdong, the Qing court, and the Holy Roman empire? In attempting to answer these questions, the present essay offers insights into the larger dynamics of art and technological exchange between East and West.
Subjects
清宮、花式車鏇、鏇床、交流 (Qing court, ornamental turning, lathe, interaction)
Type
journal article
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