Ornamentalism offers one of the first sustained and original theories of Asiatic femininity. Examining ornamentality, in lieu of Orientalism, as a way to understand the representation, circulation, and ontology of Asiatic femininity, this study extends our vocabulary about the woman of color beyond the usual platitudes about objectification.

• Introduction


• Chapter 1: Borders and Embroidery


• Chapter 2: Gleaming Things


• Chapter 3: Blue Willow


• Chapter 4: Edible Pets


• Chapter 5: Dolls


• Coda: Chokecherry


• Credits


• Notes


• Index

Anne Anlin Cheng is Professor of English and Director of American Studies at Princeton University. She is also affiliated with the University's Program in Gender and Sexuality Studies and Committee on Film Studies. Her most recent book is Second Skin: Josephine Baker & the Modern Surface (OUP 2011).