![]() Constructed in the early Showa era, the Diet Building incorporates masterpieces of sculpting that were executed by a team of 300 craftsmen over period of more than three years. To produce a three-dimensional sculpture, the design is first drawn directly on all four working surfaces-and the quality of the finished work is as much dependent on these sketches as on the craftsperson’s carving skills. As Japan westernized in the Meiji era (1868-1912), so did the architectural style and, consequently, the carvings. ![]() Buildings and spiritual establishments were embellished with carvings of Buddhist iconography, which appealed to the senses of the aristocracy.īy the Edo period (1603-1868), the trade had evolved: in compliance with the delicacy and simplicity of the Zen Buddhism aesthetic, wood carvings had moved away from statuesque imagery and more into the abstract and decorative. The art of wood carving, or moku-ch ō koku, is said to have begun at the same time as Buddhism was introduced to Japan around the sixth century. It’s a rare opportunity to touch a piece of living history-right in the heart of an ultramodern city. You can find hand-painted lanterns and patterned paper for Japanese sliding doors, classical wooden cabinets and woodblock prints, or even get your hands on a hand-made shamisen or koto. Techniques on display will include everything from woven silk and hand-painted kimono to ornamental samurai armor and hand-forged scissors and knives. Visitors will not only be able to make purchases and watch skilled craftspeople ply their trades, but will even have chances to try their hand at making traditional Tokyo crafts themselves. ![]() Starting January 21, the 11th floor exhibition hall of Shinjuku Takashimaya will be filled with the skills that have for centuries formed the foundation of Tokyo heritage, as many as 44 of them designated Traditional Crafts of Tokyo. Over six days in January, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government will celebrate these traditional techniques at the 58th Tokyo Traditional Crafts Fair. While Tokyo stands as one of the world’s most modern metropolises, it’s also home to a wealth of traditional crafts that have been passed down since the Edo period-many of which still thrive today.
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