A strong, historical part of Japanese culture is the
tradition of appreciation for beautifully crafted
artisanal objects, which draw on the techniques
and materials that have been used in Japan since
time immemorial. Each year since 1954, the Japan
Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition has been
showcasing some of the finest examples of this
tradition. Now in London, the British Museum is
putting on display pieces from the over fifty-year
history of the annual show, some from crafters
who have been designated as Living National
Treasures by the Japanese government.
The six sections to the exhibition are devoted to
the different materials used by these creators, from
ceramic, textile, lacquer and metal to wood,
bamboo and other crafts, such as cut gold-leaf,
glass, and dolls. Rounding out the show will be a
small, choice selection of beautiful objects that
predate the Japan Traditional Arts Crafts
Exhibition, taken from the British Museum's own
collection. A truly fine, refined look at the high art
of artisan work.