In early modern France, Orientalism refers to the interaction of pre-modern France with the Orient, and especially the cultural, scientific, artistic and intellectual impact of these interactions, ranging from the academic field of Oriental studies to Orientalism in fashions in the decorative arts.
The Ambassadors, a symbol of French explorations under Francis I: the French ambassadors Jean de Dinteville and Georges de Selve standing around an Ottoman Holbein carpet and various objects. Painting by Hans Holbein the Younger, 1533, National Gallery, London.
Arabic astronomical manuscript of Nasir al-Din al-Tusi, annotated by Guillaume Postel.
Ottoman Empire Qur'an, copied circa 1536, bound according to regulations set under Francis I circa 1549, with arms of Henri II. Bibliothèque nationale de France.
Saint-Cloud porcelain
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Saint-Cloud porcelain was a type of soft-paste porcelain produced in the French town of Saint-Cloud from the late 17th to the mid 18th century.
Saint-Cloud faience plate, 1700-1710.
Saint Cloud soft porcelain vase, with blue designs under glaze, 1695-1700.
Saint-Cloud soft porcelain cup, 1700-1720.
Saint-Cloud soft porcelain seau, 1720-1730. "Fleurs indiennes" ("Flowers of the Indies") in imitation of the Kakiemon style of Arita porcelain, Japan.