Degree Programs

This seminar explores the intercultural dimensions of China’s material culture. Starting from the premise that cultural change is driven in part by intercultural exchange, the class looks at the reconfigurations of Chinese material culture. How have the local craft industries affected international trade and international politics? How did China’s design traditions respond to the import of exotic luxuries, foreign demand for export goods, and the presence of foreign craftsmen, merchants, missionaries, and diplomats? The first half of the seminar highlights developments up to the 15th century, when China defined the “West” mainly as Central Asia, India, Persia, and the Arab world. The second half focuses on interactions with Europe between the 17th and 19th centuries, with an emphasis on the exotic tastes of the court. 3 credits.