European trade with China brought about a passion for chinoiserie, a style that captured fantasies of Chinese life ephemeral pagodas, long-tailed birds, men in coolie hats, flower laden vines.

During the 18th century, French artist Jean Baptiste Pillement combined Chinese themes in a particular and stylish manner which proved to be very popular. Le Jardin Chinois celebrates the fantasy and timelessness of chinoiserie. The collection is a reflection of the Wests artistic fascination with the lifestyles, imagery, crafts and colors of this faraway land. The Brunschwig & Fils archive provided some of the designs that have been included in the numerous prints, weaves and embroideries found in the collection.