ISSN: 2222-6990
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This study delves into the fusion of Chinese lacquer techniques with Portuguese and local Asian motifs in Luso-Asian art objects from the late sixteenth to early seventeenth centuries, illustrating an early form of artistic globalization. By analyzing various artifacts, this research highlights the integration of aesthetic and material cultures through the lens of lacquered works. It explores how these objects not only served aesthetic purposes but also functioned as mediums of diplomatic exchange and cultural negotiation. The presence of Chinese dragons and lotus flowers alongside Portuguese coats of arms and Christian symbols in these objects reveals a complex narrative of cultural synthesis and artistic adaptation across diverse cultures. The implications of this synthesis extend beyond artistry, offering insights into the broader themes of identity formation, cultural diplomacy, and technological exchange during a pivotal era of global exploration. The conservation challenges associated with these artifacts further emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to preserve such culturally and historically significant objects. Through the preservation and study of these Luso-Asian lacquered works, this research gains a deeper understanding of the historical dynamics of cross-cultural interactions and the role of art in bridging disparate worlds, thus enriching our comprehension of global historical processes and cultural heritage.
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