How the whimsical, hand-painted wallcoverings have captured the imagination of artists and homeowners for centuries
Precious exotic items from China, such as fine porcelain, silks, and lacquer panels started to trickle into Europe beginning in the early 16th century. These decorative items quickly gained popularity with Europe’s aristocracy. By the late 18th century, nearly all of Europe’s great houses had at least one room with Chinese wallpaper—typically women’s bedrooms—as did many more modest homes.
