Chinese patterns

China’s ornamental tradition ranks among the foremost in the world. The motifs used vary from abstract and geometric forms to more realistic images of natural phenomena, or of typical objects such as gongs and lanterns. Flowers are a distinct inspiration to Chinese decorative art, both in stylised form and as exact representations. Other compositions may be inspired by plants or animals, including mythological creatures such as the dragon and the phoenix.

Chinese Patterns presents a collection of very colourful and highly decorative images from the vast Chinese area.