Facing the World: Modernization and Splendor in Meiji Japan

<em>Cabinet,</em> about 1900, lacquered wood, designed by Kishi Kokei (Japanese, 1840-1922), lacquer decoration by Kawanobe Itcho (Japanese, 1830-1910), Kawanobe Heiemon (1852-1926) and Funabashi Iwajiro (1859-after 1914), Private Collection, E.70.16.3

September 3, 2016 - April 16, 2017
Japanese Gallery

During the Meiji (“enlightened rule”) period (1868 -1912) when power was restored back to the emperor from the samurai class, Japan underwent rapid modernization that established a thriving industrial sector and a powerful national army and navy. Though the Meiji period is best known for dramatic domestic reforms, its modernization also involved presenting the nation on the international stage through the beauty of its arts. Facing the World features magnificent lacquerware that represented Japan at international expositions in Paris and San Francisco as well as prints reflecting Japan's accelerated growth at home and abroad.

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<em>Bowl,</em> Japanese, 19th century, satsuma ware, Gift of Mrs. Charles F. Morse, 1973.48 <em>The Red Cross Namikawa Koro with Plovers in Marshland at Night,</em> about 1900, cloisonné enamel with silver and paulonia, Namikawa Yasuyuki (Japanese, 1845-1927), Private Collection, E.70.16.2 <em>Accessory Box,</em> 1912-1926, lacquered wood, Japan, Private Collection, E.70.16.1 The Second Exhibition At The Tokyo National Museum In Ueno Park, Ando Hiroshige III, 1863-1894