Japanese symbols, art and meanings
The characters used in the Japanese language are different than those used in the Western world. The Japanese use a form of calligraphy, which is “artistic writing.” Due to the exotic and sophisticated appearance of the characters, many Westerners use them for jewelry, household art and tattoos. Some popular symbols can be seen below.
Calligraphy is certainly not the only form of Japanese art. Each stage of the nation’s history has seen different forms and styles. Additional changes came when Japan opened up relations with Western peoples. From prehistory to modern times, Japanese culture has been rich with art.
Jomon & Yayoi Period (11,000 BC – 250 BC)
The earliest artifacts that archaeologists have discovered beneath Japanese soil are those from the Ainu and Jomon people. The Ainu were generally associated with northern Japan, where they were force-driven by the Jomon. Around 350 BC it is said that the Yayoi people invaded Japan. Between the three cultures, archaeologists have uncovered copper and bronze weapons and religious artifacts (such as bells) made out of the same materials.
Kofun Period (250 BC – 552 AD)
The Kofun Period is famous for its Haniwa culture, which is a type of clay. The material has been found on tombs, used mainly to build sculptures. Haniwa wasn’t the only type of material used during the Kofun. There were also bronze mirrors unearthed from the period.
Asuka Period (552 - 645) & Nara Period (646 - 794)
The beginning of the Asuka period was marked by the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. Arts and architecture from this period frequently reflected the philosophy. When the Nara Period began, the city of Nara became the capital of Japan. Further promoting Buddhism, many temples were constructed near the capital city.
Heian Period (794 - 1185)
The Heian Period began when the Japanese capital was once again moved, this time from Nara to Heiankyo. Art too changed and inspired the inception of recreational literature. The first novel is said to have been Lady Murasaki Shikibu’s Genji Monogatari. Appreciation for arts and literature continued to grow as the Fujiwawa family rose to power.
Kamakura Period (1185 – 1333)
The end of the Heian Period is famous for the epic battles between the Minamoto and Taira clans. When the Minamoto came out victorious, the age of the Kamakura began. With the introduction of the concept of samurai and a shogun, Japanese art went through a change. Paintings became more realistic and the Great Kamakura Buddha statue was built in the Kotokuin Temple. Also during the period was the first practice of the Japanese tea ceremony.
Muromachi Period (1333 – 1573)
The Muromachi Period began when the Ashikaga clan obtained the shogunate. Art returned to an aristocratic style; however the quality was vastly improved. The most famous painters were monks by the names of Shubun and Sesshu. Their work is often reflected in the decoration of Zen Buddhist temples. Also during this period was a newfound interest in gardening and flower arranging (ikebana).
Momoyama Period (1573 – 1603)
This period of Japanese history is the one referred to when historians discuss “feudal Japan.” There were many warlords vying for control of the country. This also marked a time of increased European trade. The Japanese art of the Momoyama, which included screen painting and ceramics, reflects the interaction between these two cultures. When Tokugawa Ieyasu finally unified the land, the Momoyama Period ended.
Edo Period (1603 - 1868)
Under the Tokugawa Shogunate there was more peace and stability, as well as increased trade. However, society became somewhat repressed. Art began reflecting the life of the common person. Included in this concept are Ukiyo-e wordblock prints. Significant contributors to this style are Harunobu, Utamaro and Hiroshige.
Meiji Period (1868 – 1912)
During the Meiji Restoration, the emperor regained authority over the shogunate. Japan began to modernize their science and technology, and their art changed with it. The Shin-hanga art movement developed from ukiyo-e and Western lighting effects and moods. Also, new methods of painting, carving and printing were used, inspired by those from Russia (whom the Japanese fought in 1904 during the Russo-Japanese War) and Italy.
Taisho (1912-1926), Showa (1926-1989) & Heisei (1989-present) Periods
Japanese art continued to flourish during these three, short eras. Perhaps the most prominent change was the influence of United States and Japanese cultures on one another. Positive interaction between the two nations began after World War II, where they fought on opposing sides. While traditional sculpture and oil paintings have their place, Japanese art is now primarily developed for entertainment and commercial purposes, often with American consumers in mind.
(c)Card1616.com
