Imari Ware: Masterpieces of the Kakiemon and Kinrande Styles

Finished

Imari ware porcelain was highly sought after, not only in the domestic market but in Europe as well. Beginning about the middle of the 17th century, production techniques improved, resulting in thinner pieces and a brighter, milky-white base known as nigoshide. Potters also developed a style of highly colorful decoration dominated by bright red tones that were popular with European buyers. Using these two innovations, potters fashioned delicate dishes and figurines of kimono-clad women to Western ideas of Eastern beauty. This was the beginning of what is now called the Kakiemon style. During the following Genroku era (1688-1704), designs and patterns were adapted for larger-scale production. The resulting Kinrande style is characterized by symmetrical and repeating patterns suited to mass production, yet also featured dazzling decoration rendered in gold atop colorful enamel glazes. In Europe, large jars and dishes in this style came to grace the palaces of kings and nobles. At the same time, an extended period of peace and stability in Japan had enriched the merchant class, and they too sought out porcelain in the Kinrande style as items of great luxury. This exhibition features approximately 80 masterpieces of Imari ware dating from the second half of the 17th century to the first half of the 18th century.

Schedule

Oct 6 (Tue) 2015-Dec 23 (Wed) 2015

Opening Hours Information

Hours	10:00-17:00 Open 10:00-20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. Last Admission 16:30.
Closed	Monday, Tuesday Open on a public holiday but closed on the following day. Closed during the New Year holidays and in between exhibitions.

Fee

Venue

Toguri Museum of Art
http://www.toguri-museum.or.jp