17.3 Meiji period decorative arts and export wares

The Meiji period saw a revival of traditional Japanese decorative arts techniques like cloisonné, Satsuma ware, and Imari porcelain. These crafts were industrialized to meet growing demand, both domestically and internationally, while maintaining high levels of craftsmanship.

Japanese decorative arts gained popularity in the West, influencing Western art movements like Art Nouveau. The Meiji government promoted exports through World's Fairs, establishing Japan's cultural presence globally and boosting its economy through increased art and craft sales.

Decorative Arts Techniques

Enameling and Porcelain Production

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• Cloisonné involves creating intricate designs using thin metal strips filled with colored enamel paste and fired at high temperatures (vases, boxes, plates)
• Satsuma ware consists of a type of earthenware pottery known for its intricate, detailed designs and ivory-colored glaze often featuring landscapes, flowers, or scenes from Japanese mythology
• Imari porcelain produced in the Arita region of Japan characterized by its vibrant color palette of cobalt blue, iron red, and gold used to create highly detailed and ornate designs (plates, bowls, vases)
• Techniques like cloisonné, Satsuma ware, and Imari porcelain experienced a revival during the Meiji period as artisans sought to preserve and promote traditional Japanese craftsmanship

Industrialization of Decorative Arts

• Industrial arts emerged as a result of the Meiji government's efforts to modernize and industrialize Japan
• Mass production techniques were introduced to create decorative arts objects more efficiently and in larger quantities
• Industrialization allowed for the creation of more affordable and accessible decorative arts objects while still maintaining a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail
• The use of industrial techniques in the production of decorative arts helped to meet the growing demand for Japanese art and crafts both domestically and internationally

International Influence

Japonisme in Western Decorative Arts

• Japonisme refers to the influence of Japanese art and aesthetics on Western art and design during the late 19th century
• Japanese decorative arts, particularly woodblock prints, ceramics, and lacquerware, became highly sought after by Western collectors and connoisseurs
• Western artists and designers incorporated Japanese motifs, techniques, and design principles into their own work, creating a unique fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics (Art Nouveau, Impressionism)
• The popularity of Japonisme helped to establish Japan as a major cultural influence on the global stage and contributed to the country's economic growth through increased exports

Expanding Export Market and World's Fairs

• The Meiji government actively promoted the export of Japanese decorative arts as a means of generating revenue and establishing Japan's cultural presence on the global stage
• Japanese decorative arts were exhibited at major international expositions and World's Fairs, such as the 1873 Vienna World's Fair and the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition
• These exhibitions provided a platform for Japan to showcase its artistic and cultural achievements to a wider audience and attract potential buyers and collectors
• The success of Japanese decorative arts at these events led to increased demand for Japanese products in Western markets and helped to establish Japan as a major player in the global art and design scene

Key Figures and Organizations

Namikawa Yasuyuki and Cloisonné

• Namikawa Yasuyuki was a renowned cloisonné artist during the Meiji period known for his innovative techniques and designs
• He developed a new type of cloisonné called "wireless cloisonné" or "musen jippo" which eliminated the need for metal strips and allowed for more fluid and naturalistic designs
• Namikawa's work was highly sought after by both Japanese and Western collectors and helped to elevate the status of cloisonné as a fine art form
• He received numerous awards and accolades for his work, including being appointed as an Imperial Household Artist in 1896

Meiji Art Society and Promotion of Japanese Arts

• The Meiji Art Society was established in 1879 with the goal of promoting and preserving traditional Japanese arts and crafts
• The organization held exhibitions, workshops, and lectures to educate the public about the value and significance of Japanese art and culture
• It also provided support and resources for artists and artisans working in traditional mediums such as ceramics, lacquerware, and textiles
• The Meiji Art Society played a crucial role in the revival and preservation of traditional Japanese arts during a period of rapid modernization and Westernization