Japanese Vase with Dragon, ca. 1900, Taisho period (1912-1926). Porcelain, silver and lacquer 8 13/16 × 4 5/8 in. (22.4 × 11.7 cm). Gift of Angela E. Garrett in memory of her daughter, Julie A. Garrett 1981.45
Decorative by Design: 250 Years of Japanese Objects
September 16, 2023 - April 14, 2024
Ann K. Walch-Chan GalleryFor centuries little formal distinction existed between all types of Japanese art—from ceramics to sculpture and basketry to paintings. One art form was not more distinguished than another and everything played an equally vital role in the embellishment of people and spaces. The objects in this exhibition range in functionality; however each item reflects the importance of decoration. Whether they are highly detailed, minimalistic, or somewhere in between they each illustrate the concept of kazari, or the art of decoration and ornamentation. Stimulating the senses through viewing, using, or adorning a work of art, kazari highlights the dynamism of Japanese art and illustrates how the mundane world can be transformed into something extraordinary when aesthetics are considered. This exhibition features artwork from the 18th through 20th century from the FIA’s permanent collection and includes objects that were created for the Japanese market as well as for export to Europe and the United States.
Please note due to unforeseen circumstances this exhibition is closing one week early on April 14, 2024.
From the Exhibition
Japanese Pair of Vases with Phoenix, n.d., Meiji period (1868-1912). Cloisonné, copper, and silver, 7 × 4 in. (17.8 × 10.2 cm). Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Leo S. Figiel, and Dr. and Mrs. Steven J. Figiel 1983.18.1
Japanese Flower Basket, n.d., Showa Period Bamboo. Gift of F. Karel Wiest in Memory of Julie A. Garrett. 1982.419
