A Short History of Japanese Vintage Art, Part 1

The decor school of thought in the Japanese tradition has been influenced its unique culture.  Japan sees the focus of home decoration to rest upon what is called "spatial matters."  This is why shoji screens are commonly used in the Japanese household.  In this school of thought, the correct use of space is the main purpose.  It is helpful to know a few facts about Japan's collective art, its very old history, its interesting society, and its own distinct culture.  All this will help one better appreciate their studied viewpoint on the subject of contemporary Asian decoration.

Japanese art covers a wide range of styles which would include media.  Ancient pottery, sculpture in wood and bronze, and ink painting on silk and paper are all important parts of the traditions dating back thousands of years.  These art forms were evident from the beginnings of human habitation in Japan.  Archeologists estimate the respective date to be in the 10 millennium B.C.  In any case, they have remained constant to the present day.  So we can see that objects have played a role in Japanese decor (and ordinary life) from the beginning of their civilization. 

Historically speaking, Japan has been the subject of sudden invasions of new and foreign ideas.  These invasions were followed by long periods of time where there was little contact with the outside world.  So these facts about their art world reflect similar political and social realities of the time.  As a result, Japanese people have developed the skillful ability to assimilate certain foreign elements from outside cultures.  However, they were very careful to ensure that these foreign elements were a distinct complement to their own aesthetic preferences.  Japan has always been insistent about keeping foreign influence in their art and society at bay.  This is one thing that makes Japan different from trends in other Asian art trends.  Certainly Japanese decor includes objects.  However, their ruling prinicipal says that the space in a room is the first consideration.

Harlan Urwiler

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