The Guimet Museum Explored the Splendours of Imperial Japan
In an exhibition held in Paris in 2018, the work of major figures in the 19th-century Japanese artistic revival was gathered together.
Kuniteru Utagawa, “Vue d'ensemble du quartier français de Yokohama” (estampe), 1872. © RMN-GP (MNAAG, Paris) / Thierry Ollivier
Considered a revolutionary period, the Meiji era (1868-1912) brought a great deal to Japan in terms of modernisation.
All these developments were addressed by artists in different media and assembled by the Guimet National Museum of Asian Arts (MNAAG) as part of the exhibition Meiji, Splendours of Imperial Japan, held from 17th October 2018 until 14th January 2019.
Showcasing links between Japanese and European artists
Goldwork, painted shutters, photographs, textiles, paintings, bronze statues and ceramics all illustrated this cultural revolution. A number of important figures from the Japanese artistic canon were also highlighted, including Kawanabe Kyosai and Shibata Zeshin, known for their innovative and daring style.
This retrospective also marked an opportunity to discover the intrinsic links between European and Japanese creators and artists. Their work, much of which was taken from public and private European collections (such as those of the MNAAG, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum), were displayed in parallel to reveal the similarities.
Meiji, Splendours of Imperial Japan (2018), an exhibition held at the Guimet National Museum of Asian Arts from 17 October 2018 until 14 January 2019.
“Brûle-parfum en forme de faucon”, Sano Takachika, argent, or, bronze doré et laqué, Japon, vers 1890, H : 68,3 cm, Collection Khalili, Londres © The Khalili Collections of Japanese Art
“Orchestre de monstres - bois et cornes -” Japon, seconde moitié du XIXème siècle. MNAAG Paris, Dist. RMN-GP / Thierry Ollivier
“Promenade à bord d’une barque”, illustration du chapitre “Ukifune” du “Dit du Genji”, émaux cloisonnés, Japon, vers 1901, 69 x 69 cm, Collection Khalili, Londres © The Khalili Collections of Japanese Art
“Vase à décor de papillons” © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
“Pont Tenjin à Osaka”, Musée Guimet © MNAAG, Paris
TRENDING
-
The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
-
Recipe for Ichiraku Ramen from ‘Naruto’ by Danielle Baghernejad
Taken from the popular manga with the character of the same name who loves ramen, this dish is named after the hero's favourite restaurant.
-
Shifting Narratives, Photographers Facing the Cataclysm
The events of March 11, 2011, profoundly altered many artists' practices, prompting them to rewrite their individual and collective stories.
-
Recipe for Fried Chicken by Rika Yukimasa
The Japanese chef shares her foolproof secret to make 'kara-age', which combines tender, juicy meat with a crispy coating.
-
The Art of Haruki Nakamura's Paper Toys
This artist draws inspiration from origami to create figurines that unfold or come to life when they are thrown or touched.
