China or Japan

The body of work attributed to China or Japan active during the 18th century is centered exclusively on textile arts. Documented production dates span a significant portion of the century, ranging from approximately 1700 through 1775.

This artistic or workshop output is notable for its six documented textile items currently represented in major Western museum collections. All six surviving pieces are identified in institutional records solely by the descriptive title Fragment. These artifacts reflect the advanced weaving, dyeing, and pattern execution characteristic of textile production in China or Japan during this period.

The historical significance of these pieces is established by their preservation in the permanent holdings of the Art Institute of Chicago. The textiles meet recognized museum-quality standards, providing scholars and enthusiasts with valuable primary source material. Given the age of these 18th-century objects, the designs and related imagery are generally considered to be in the public domain. This accessibility allows for the creation of high-quality prints and reproductions for wider study and enjoyment.