HINDELOOPEN

The coastal town of Hindeloopen in the province of Friesland in the Netherlands was an important maritime and trade centre from the 15th to 18th centuries. The thriving trade with Asian countries during the 17th and 18th centuries, due to the East India Company had a huge impact on the local style of art. The basic style of Hindeloopen which was painted on wood carvings, furniture and walls showed the influence of Norwegian Rosemaling, but an Eastern influence appeared, with dark backgrounds and intricate flower designs in striking colours reminiscent of chintz fabric.  Some artists imitated Chinese porcelain by painting in a single colour such as blue on an off-white background. The style can be characterised by masses of acanthus scrolls and small flowers, often with a "lucky bird" featured at the centre of the design. Landscapes are sometimes featured within a cartouche or garland.