JAPANESE APPLIED ART
Last updated | 23/09/2010
The idea of decorative or applied arts is a western
classification. In traditional Japanese culture there were not the
same distinctions between the arts. Craftsmanship was important
regardless of purpose or subject. Some of the most beautiful
Japanese items are practical everyday objects but the decoration
always respects the function. Japanese art has certain
consistent ideas namely, truth to nature and natural materials,
excellence in craftsmanship and design, and a respect for native
tradition.
The modernisation of Japan began in the 19th century and the
industrialisation of many native industries included the applied
arts. The Japanese Government actively encouraged exportation and
Japanese products were shown at a number of International
Industrial Expositions. The creation of new export markets allowed
arts and artefacts to reach wider audiences. There was a huge
demand for Japanese goods by Western collectors.
The Japanese collection at Perth Museum and Art Gallery has been
acquired from a variety of sources between 1917 to the present day.
The largest single component of Japanese objects consists of 122
items from the John Henry Dixon collection this came to the museum
c.1917. This includes a small but very important collection of
objects associated with the Ainu people of Northern
Japan.
A booklet to accompany the Japanese
collection, A Glimpse of the Floating
World is available to buy at Perth Museum & Art
Gallery.
