Japan: Imagery [CHRONOLOGICAL] Flashcards
When does the Deep Vessel originate? What does the piece provide to the context of Japan art?
( Jomon(Middle Jomon Period)) (c. 3500-2500 BCE)
- Later Jomon vessel taken a ritualistic (ceremonial(?)) aspect with the characteristics of potted vessels becoming more extravagant= embellished handles; shaping become more complex, more diverse, sophisticated markings–> registered, cord markings, but orientation changes each level- linear markings, nail markings.
When does Dogu (clay figurine) originate?What does the piece provide to the context of Japan art?
(Jomon(Final Jomon Period)) (c. 1000-300 BCE)
- Jomon figurines were human, anthropomorphic figures, and animals: Typically female, highly stylized= minimized heads, large eyes (coffee bean style), large breast, tiny waist, wide hips, and occasionally fleshy stomachs; share similarities with pre-historic sculptures
- Associated with fertility: women fertility or land fertility
When does Haniwa Warrior from Gunma Prefecture originate? What does the piece provide to the context of Japan art?
(Kofun) (6th Century CE)
- Tombs for the ruling class –> Haniwa placed all around tombs, became representational figures (animals, houses, people)–> warrior
- Distinguishes and protects the sacred space of the deceased from the living.
- The warrior meaning changed; emphasized reenactment of funerary ceremonies that would protect the deceased from supernatural harmful things in afterlife.
- features minimalist; clothing is extremely detailed- figures power from clothing and weapons= fit warriors.
When does Ise Jingu originate? What does the piece provide to the context of Japan art?
(Yayoi period and Later) (1st-3rd Century)
- Kami and Shinto.
- Buildings used for storage- common in Shinto Sacred architecture –> shrine dedicated to the Kami sun god (mythical ancestor of the imperial family) (longstanding ties between Shinto belief and the imperial power)
- Sacred items (mirrors or swords) values like wisdom and truth were believed to be reflected in simple un-adorned materials and construction.
- Old fashion techniques and materials –> rebuilding it= notions of death and rebirth and ritual purification as a form of renewal.
When does Anthropomorphized Shinto Deity originate? What does the piece provide to the context of Japan art?
(Heian) (10th Century) (Cypress wood)
- Anthropomorphized Kami in Heian often in courtly dress= dual sacred and secular authority –> honoring ancestors of aristocratic families
- Not meant to be seen–> physical body is perceived like an object that they inhabit= mirrors/swords etc
When does Shaka Triad originate? What does the piece provide to the context of Japan art?
(Tori Bushi) (Asuka Period)
- Buddhist Triad: Buddha (Shakamuni) between two bodhisattva (Manu and Fugen)–> common in Japanese art
- Metal working skill during Asuka period: guided golden surfaces suggest wealth or royal patronage –> commissioned in hope of healing a prince from his aliments–> will be reborn in Buddhist paradise if he dies.
