News
EXHIBITION ANNOUNCEMENT
The Meiji and Taisho period of Japanese history saw metal craftsmen fashioning elaborate armor and sword fittings and casting bronze into religious sculptures. These metal smiths later found a more viable outlet for their talent in the form of creating pieces for world fairs and domestic exhibitions to show off Japanese culture and aesthetics.
Their creations were items like realistic bronze sculptures of animals and pieces of utilitarian function such as incense burners and cloisonné vases, all marking the most astounding technical achievements. In addition to metalwork, porcelain creations were also included and were more intricate in terms of shape, design, and breadth of color.
With the restoration of the emperor in 1868, Japan announced a clean break from the feudal system that had characterized the military government under the shoguns. In politics as well as culture, Japan began looking outward in order to become a major player on the world stage; at the same time, however, the country remained mindful of retaining its native values and aesthetics.
This exhibition represents the first encounter with the art of Japan for many of the earliest donors to the Art Institute. It also marks the beginning of the phenomenal obsession with Japanese art and design coined ‘Japonisme’ in the United States.
Their creations were items like realistic bronze sculptures of animals and pieces of utilitarian function such as incense burners and cloisonné vases, all marking the most astounding technical achievements. In addition to metalwork, porcelain creations were also included and were more intricate in terms of shape, design, and breadth of color.
With the restoration of the emperor in 1868, Japan announced a clean break from the feudal system that had characterized the military government under the shoguns. In politics as well as culture, Japan began looking outward in order to become a major player on the world stage; at the same time, however, the country remained mindful of retaining its native values and aesthetics.
This exhibition represents the first encounter with the art of Japan for many of the earliest donors to the Art Institute. It also marks the beginning of the phenomenal obsession with Japanese art and design coined ‘Japonisme’ in the United States.