Japan no Ari

An introduction to Japanese culture and traditions that have been loved since ancient times and still remain in modern lives and society.

Artistic techniques passed down and polished through the ages

Ceramics

Because the techniques and patterns of Japanese ceramic ware were passed along from the Korean Peninsula, the distribution of famous kilns is centered around western Japan. The characteristics of production regions seen in modern ceramics developed in the 14^th century. Pottery manufacturing became active in the regions known as Japan’s six old kilns – Seto, Tokoname, Shigaraki, Echizen, Tanba and Bizen. Upon entering the 15^th century, tea ceremony became popular and tools used in tearooms, such as teacups, were made in Seto and other areas. Ceramics finished with Shino and Oribe glazes were particularly famous. New techniques were brought in from the Korean Peninsular in the 16^th century and Korean-style ceramics, such as Karatsu Ware and Hagi Ware, became popular. Imari Ware was made for the first time in the 17^th century from porcelain stone discovered in Arita. The use of various colors in Imari Ware was a breakthrough compared to the monotint of conventional works. This development was followed by the establishment of the Kakiemon style of underglaze blue and white porcelain ware. It was from this time that many ceramics were exported abroad and it is said that these fine and graceful artworks enthralled the royalty and techniques for Arita ceramics were passed along to other places such as Kyoto and Kutani.

Joinery (Woodwork Products)

“Joinery” is a technique for making cabinets with lids and drawers by fitting wood together without the use of nails or any other metal ware. The history of joinery can be traced back to the court culture of the 6^th century, where the craftsmen mainly produced items for the nobility. From about the 17^th century, products for samurai and commoners began to be made. Many such pieces can be seen, constructed from beech wood, zelkova, paulownia, and other materials and using the grain of the wood to maximum advantage to create a unique and beautiful result.

Lacquer Ware

Lacquer ware is the generic term for woodwork glazed in sap from lacquer trees found mainly in East Asia. Production regions are spread around Japan, however the Wajima Ware, Aizu Ware, Echizen Ware, Yamanaka Ware and Kishu Ware are known as the five big areas of production. Each region has its own characteristics . For example, most Wajima Ware consists of art work and high-quality pieces, while most Aizu Ware is marketed towards consumers at reasonable prices.

Textiles

Blanket texture patterns found on a 3^rd century earthen vessel are the first trace of woven goods in Japan. Since the 8^th century onward, technicians from China and the Korean Peninsula passed on techniques of silk cultivation and woven goods developed as regional industries throughout Japan, from quality products made out of materials such as silk, to products for everyday use, made from hemp, cotton and other materials.