The style of chinoiserie is not China as it is, but as it was imagined in Europe. What do Tsarskoye Selo and the Far East have in common? The answer to this question is given by the style of chinoiserie - an exquisite European fantasy on the theme of China, born in the age of enlightened absolutism. Chinoiserie is not authentic China, but a reflection of European perceptions of it. In the 18th century, when trade with the East became more active, China was perceived as a mysterious, exotic country full of sophistication, beauty, and curiosities. Eastern porcelain, silk, lacquered furniture, screens, and engravings inspired European masters to create decorative elements referring to the "imagined China." Why was the style so popular in the country residences of Russian emperors? Why did the parks of Tsarskoye Selo feature the Creaking Pavilion and the Chinese Village? What explains the attraction to exoticism and how does it relate to fashion, politics, and cultural diplomacy? Don't forget to register. The St. Petersburg event schedule is available on KudaGo.