Francine Giese-Vögeli Boeken

With contributions from outstanding specialists in glass art and East Asian art history, this edited volume opens a cross-cultural dialogue on the hitherto little-studied medium of Chinese reverse glass painting. The first major survey of this form of East Asian art, the volume traces its long history, its local and global diffusion, and its artistic and technical characteristics. Manufactured for export to Europe and for local consumption within China, the fragile artworks studied in this volume constitute a paramount part of Chinese visual culture and attest to the intensive cultural and artistic exchange between China and the West.

This publication accompanies the exhibition at the Vitromusée Romont, where Philip Baldwin and Monica Guggisberg explore the labyrinth theme through various glass art works from recent exhibitions in France, England, and Denmark, along with new pieces created specifically for this venue. Their fascination with ancient history, the migratory nature of humanity, and the interconnectedness of objects—encompassing form, function, aesthetic beauty, and symbolic meaning—showcases their unique perspectives across civilizations spanning thousands of years. The catalog includes contributions from internationally renowned specialists, reflecting the reinterpretation of a classical theme in contemporary glass art. It highlights Baldwin and Guggisberg's exploration of the labyrinth motif, illustrating their distinct viewpoints on the relationships between history, art, and the human experience. The publication features essays by the artists themselves and insights from experts, guiding readers through the labyrinthine paths of contemporary glass art and current artistic trends.