The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 6. The Master Painter Ito Jakuchu

What is “superlative artistry”? This is a laudatory description of the superb pieces that demonstrated the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship from among the various exquisite crafts (pottery, cloisonné, metalworking, woodworking, lacquerware, and so on) produced during the late 19th century. This artistry shocked the west, where japonisme had already become something of trend, and it met with even greater acclaim than in Japan. These videos introduce some of the most famed of the great masterpieces of Japanese craftsmanship, deserving of the description of “superlative artistry,” from the detailed depictions of Jakuchu (a forerunner of the superlative artistry) to the works of contemporary artists who have inherited the same DNA.

The Japan Foundation preceded this video series with the exhibition “The Superlative Artistry of Japan,” which has been touring the world since 2018. We are planning to make this a long-term tour, with the target being to have the exhibition visit 50 cities around the world over a period of roughly 10 years. Opening with the craftsmanship of the late 19th century, the exhibition will also showcase a wide range of different materials: these range from the works of living national treasures and contemporary artists, to figures produced by Kaiyodo and even food samples. If the traveling exhibition comes your way, be sure to check it out! The touring schedule can be seen from the link below.
https://www.jpf.go.jp/j/project/cultu...

Playlist:    • 超絶技巧の日本／The Superlative Artistry of Japan  

■The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 1. The Techniques of Japan That Shocked the World
   • The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 1. The...  
■The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 2. Namikawa Yasuyuki and Cloisonné
   • The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 2. Nam...  
■The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 3. Makuzu Kozan and Pottery
   • The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 3. Mak...  
■The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 4. Shoami Katsuyoshi and Metalworking
   • The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 4. Sho...  
■The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 5. Sword Accoutrements
   • The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 5. Swo...  
■The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 6. The Master Painter Ito Jakuchu
■The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 7. Genes Passed Down Through Time
   • The Superlative Artistry of Japan ‒ 7. Gen...