Explore Modern Japanese Lacquer at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is presenting a special exhibition dedicated to modern Japanese lacquer art. Titled "Modern Japanese Lacquer," the display runs from July 1 to September 4, 2022, offering visitors a detailed look at nearly 70 works created between 1890 and 1950. This period was pivotal for Japanese lacquer, showcasing its transformation from traditional styles to an art form characterized by new colors and bold designs.
A New Chapter for Japanese Lacquer Art
For over a millennium, Japanese lacquer, known as urushi, has been a highly refined craft, deeply embedded in the nation's cultural heritage. Historically, intricate decorations were meticulously built up using dozens of fine lacquer layers, often adorned with gold or silver powder, mother-of-pearl, and even quail eggshell to create detailed 'sprinkled pictures' (maki-e). These traditional pieces frequently depicted serene natural scenes, inviting contemplative viewing.
However, the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought significant change. The establishment of new art academies allowed students to pursue multidisciplinary training and gain recognition as individual artists. This shift led to a departure from classical iconography, fostering more personal and innovative designs. Despite initial challenges, including exclusion from the national Salon, artists persevered, developing fresh visual idioms. This dedication eventually led to lacquer art's admission into the Salon in 1927, catalyzing an explosion of creativity and daring new forms.
Insights into the Exhibition and Its Curators
The "Modern Japanese Lacquer" exhibition is a collaborative effort between the Rijksmuseum and the Museum für Lackkunst in Münster, Germany. It was carefully curated by Jan Dees, a leading specialist in Japanese lacquer from the 1890-1950 period, whose PhD focused on this era. The heart of the exhibition comes from the extensive collection amassed over four decades by Jan Dees and his partner René van der Star. This core selection is further enriched by significant loaned works from institutions across Japan, the United States, and Europe, providing a comprehensive overview of this artistic movement.
Planning Your Visit to See Japanese Lacquer
Visitors to the Rijksmuseum will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse array of works, including a writing case once owned by Emperor Meiji from 1912 and a striking, almost photographic depiction of a cormorant on a surf-swept rock. The exhibition encourages a close, attentive viewing experience, inviting contemplation of both the detailed subject matter and the intricate techniques employed by the artists.
For those interested in exploring the topic further, an accompanying English catalogue titled "Breaking out of Tradition: Japanese Lacquer 1890-1950," authored by Jan Dees and published by Hirmer Verlag, is available.
This unique presentation offers a fascinating glimpse into a transformative period of Japanese art history within the grand setting of the Rijksmuseum. To discover more cultural highlights and exhibitions across Amsterdam, you can browse Musemap (musemap.art) for other local museums or explore what's currently on display.
