In the previous posts, we've marveled at cute toys and colorful prizes plucked from claw machines in Taipei's arcades.
But cuteness can be found also in rare antiquities like the pieces on display in the gold and pink gallery celebrating the opulent wonders of the Rococo era at Taipei's National Palace Museum.
The 18th century was an age of exploration and global trade, with the East and West exchanging cultures and exotic treasures.
European aristocrats started collecting porcelain and lacquerware from the distant lands of China and Japan that ended up adorning the halls of their homes. But the flow of culture and artistry was not unidirectional, as Rococo influences also made their way to Asia.
In Rococo extravagance and decorative exuberance reigned supreme as proved by pieces on display in this petite gallery that seems to be a hit with children and families for its playful design and delightful assortment of items.
Here, you'll encounter a selection of objects, from ornate clocks to exquisite tableware. However, the pièce de résistance is an enchanting nécessaire – a charming box featuring a mirror, tweezers, fragrance bottles, and an assortment of beauty tools such as small brushes, all perfectly downsized for the lady on the go.
This nècessaire is a piece of art in itself, but what sets it apart and captures your heart are the endearing enamel miniatures of dalmatian dogs that decorate some of the accessories included in the box. These tiny pups are also symbolically used as the symbolic guardians of this powder-pink and gold gallery.
In stark contrast to our contemporary, utilitarian travel kits (if you travel Premium Business and Premium Economy Class on long-haul flights with China Airlines at the moment you will receive a free travelling kit by The North Face – the second collaboration between Taiwan's flagship carrier and the outdoor brand – definitely sporty and functional, but devoid of the excesses of the fancy Rococo nécessaire…) this Rococo nécessaire exudes grandeur and opulence and offers an enchanting glimpse into a bygone era when extravagance knew no bounds, and even the most mundane necessities were transformed into exquisite works of art.
And what about you? What does your travelling kit look like? Do you go for minimal and functional kits or do you represent the proverbial nightmare for airport security officers as you can't reduce what you're carrying to the minimum? And if you're a product design student can you think about a compact travelling kit that contains all the necessary basic items, but also incorporates clever compartments for personal medications, ensuring safety and convenience, all without compromising the harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality?
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