Chinoiserie is a style of art that was popular in Europe during the 18th century. It was inspired by Chinese art and culture, and it often featured exaggerated and fanciful depictions of Chinese objects and scenes. Chinoiserie tiles were a popular way to bring the exoticism of China into European homes. Pagodas were originally built to help preserve and protect Buddhist relics and artifacts, and were/are viewed as representative of the Buddha.