Early 20th Century Japanese Embroidery Textile Pagoda Scenery Panel

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Description

A Japanese silk embroidery landscape scenery panel depicting a Buddhist pagoda and a temple compound set in a forest with … Read more A Japanese silk embroidery landscape scenery panel depicting a Buddhist pagoda and a temple compound set in a forest with towering pines and red maple trees. This type of pictorial panels was made mostly in the early 20th century (1910-20s) toward the end of Meiji and beginning of Taisho period. At the time, Japan experienced an unprecedented opening to the west and a flux of commercial, cultural and artistic exchange. By participating many international expos in the west, it introduced its art to the west and kicked up the crazed Japonisme trend and impact on the trajectory of western art. At the same time, western aesthetic and perspective on art influenced Japanese art made around that time as well. This silk panel was such an example. Completely Japanese in embroidery techniques and subject matter, it was crafted in the tradition of a western landscape oil painting, obviously targeting to the export market for the western taste.
The five-story pagoda in the center of the picture can be found in many Japanese Buddhist shrines, therefore it is difficult to pinpoint the exact location. It is quite possible that it is the Pagoda in the Kofuku-ji located Nara based on composition with the other temple building and the likelihood that only well-known architecture would be depicted for the purpose of appealing to western audience. It was framed within a brocade border, apparently original and framed in a copper mental frame.
For similar landmark examples, see illustration on page 142-143: Threads of Silk and Gold Ornamental Textile from Meiji Japan. Ashmolean.
Page 158-159 Re-envisioning Japan Meiji Fine Art Textile. Voller. See less