VIS 21B Japanese Art

Title: Dogu (from Kamikurokoma) Period: Jomon Period, 3000 - 2000 BC Site: Misaka-cho, Yamanashi Material: Earthenware

This is an animal and humanoid sculpture. simplistic facial features. The lines on cheeks resemble tattoos some Japanese people had for good luck when hunting and rituals. The lines show the hunting of culture at the top. The dots on shoulders resemble fur, possibly animal fur worn during hunting. There are three fingers only on hand, simplistic understanding of body. Two holes on the eyes as well as mouth. The holes on the shoulder have an unknown function. The hand gesture across the chest known to symbolize pregnancy; mortality rates were high. This is what the hand gesture represented in other cultures, however, people are not completely sure if that is what it means or is just interpreted that way. The animal mask --> intimidation. Scholars interpreted this sculpture as an animal mask on a human face. medium between human world and divine world

Title: Night Pilgrimage Artist: Suzuki Harunobu (founded representation of everyday life) Period: Edo Material: polychrome wood block print

Ukiyo-e paint: painting of floating world. Harunobu expanded upon the wood block print style -> polychrome technique added color in layers. multiple colors are used. although it looks relatively simple, there was a lot of depth that went into it. expanded setting of the painting. subject matter of print = women in everyday life. depicts a woman going to Shinto shrine. shows the daily life of geisha women. There are subtle facial expressions, dramatic gestures, detailed garments. there is not a lot of facial expression at all, however, the feeling and mood can be well conveyed through other sorts. technique and style's influence can be seen in European Impressionist art dramatic composition; heavily influenced Impressionist movement

Title: Deer Scroll Artist: Tawaraya Sōtatsu Period: Momoyama Material: hand scroll; gold and silver pigment and ink on paper

Zen Buddhism art Calligraphy by Hon'ami Koetsu - kana writing; more Japanese features than Chinese. the calligraphy interspersed throughout composition. there is japanese kana in writing: this developed unique handscroll painting. It is monochrome style with casual outlines of the deer. - Chinese character based on Buddhism; Japanese is the kana system; this one is both.

Title: Origin of the Temple on Mount Shigi (Shigisan engi emaki) Period: Heian Material: hand scroll, ink and light color on paper

emaki - handscroll style of painting taken from China otoko-e - "male" style painting telling stories of historical events or legends. The location this painting depicts became famous because of this painting. There was a monk that spent his early life finding the "truth" and studied Buddhism. At Shigi, he established his own temple and became an influential monk. Depiction: The temple is located in the mountain area, which is far away from a town or village. The supplies are therefore, provided only by a landlord nearby. The Buddhist sends a magic golden bowl that went to the storange house, and lifted the storage house to provide for the temple. It is monochrome or lightly colored pictures that relied on linework to convey the visual image. There is a moment the golden ball is flying, and the people are running outside to see it happen. The people watching have a very dramatic reaction, which is depicted through body language. There is someone who witnessed the ball lifting the house going to the mountain, and is coming with a horse. Depiction of storage house: Japanese granuary bottom half with Chinese tiled top. Wooden structure buildings. Style: there are ink lines without colorful pigments. The tale of Genji used multiple pigements to provide colorful composition. The artist relied on the ink lines to depict most images. Birds eye perspective is used. Although, this painting has scenes happening in the open exterior space, instead of an interior space. The same type of perspective regardless. There are three scrolls with three different volumes to this art piece. In this painting, all the images have strong facial features/expressions, ad dramatic body language. There is a dramatic moment depicted in the story. Each person is individualized and their body language is embellished. Similarities: horizo

Title: View of the "Dry Landscape" Garden of the Ryoanji Period: Momoyama Site: Kyoto

- karesansui this location was a space for the public, so monks move to a different area to meditate in peace. dry landscapes meant to help Zen Buddhists meditate to achieve Enlightenment. zen garden became a significant space during the zen buddhism era. there are seven stones in large sand courtyard representing islands of Japan; artifical landscape each rock has different texture, shape, size, origin location - pay attention to detail. moss and rocks are arranged to look like islands diff. colros and textures of rocks to mimic mountains, etc.. Sandstones are used to look like islands. the patterns in sand rearranged daily by Buddhist monks; a practice. This is done in a much larger space

Title: Catching a Catfish with a Gourd Artist: Josetsu Period: Muromachi Material: hanging scroll; ink and light color on silk

- ko-an: questioning and answering between Buddhist masters and disciples (want answer devoid of normalcy;reality). ko'an thinking was not meant to be rational. What is Buddha? 3 jin of persimmons. This is an important piece of Zen art. message: become enlightened when you realize what you are doing is pointless (like catching a catfish with too small of a gourd); view world in a non stereotypical way shiga-jiku format - poetry above painting on a scroll This follows landscape style of southern Song dynasty - ink-wash mountains and empty space make up background. - resembles Southern Song style with ink wash mountains, one corner composition -1st generation of Southern Song landscape style. the main image is in one corner, and there is a lot of empty space so people can leave it up to their imagination. The writing above is an inscription by 33 monks - calligraphy. This shows someone trying to catch a fish.

Title: Tiger Jataka Site: panel of Tamamushi Shrine Period: Asuka Material: lacquer painting on

There is painting on the door on the shrine that reflects the early painting style. On the side door is a depiction of the Boddhisattvas. It was made in the sixth dynasty style as the image has a long rectangular face, long neck, and elongated elegant body. The garment also reflects styles from the chinese sixth dynasty. It shows jataka, which is a story of previous life of Shakyamuni Buddha. Before the Buddha's last life, he had 53 previous lives. THese lives are all called Jataka. Buddha appeared as a different form in each life. In this art piece, he is seen in a human being form. Six Dynasties China style seen in hand scrolls, It has elongated figures, secondary element = landscape Meant to teach compassion. Story: One day Buddha worked in the mountain area and saw a tiger as well as several baby tigers starving to death. He tried to save the tigets here and offered his flesh out to the tigers. He allowed the tiget to open their mouth and bite him to save their life. king looking for an heir sends 3 princes out to find see wisdom and compassion sees one prince sees a starving mother tiger unable to protect her cubs and jumps off cliff to let her eat him alive. Composition: continuous narrative; repeated figures. This shows Buddha on the floor and the tiger biting Buddha. On the top, Shakyamuni Buddha is at the top taking his clothes at the top of the tree. He jumps from the peak and falls on the ground. Three images of shakyamuni are shown. This shows the earliest example of painted bamboo. In terms of style, there is an elongated body. The trees have a naive form. The contours of the rock reflect that of Chinese art

Title: Irises Artist: Ōgata Kōrin Period: Edo; 1701 Material: pair of six-panel byōbu; color with gold leaf on paper

The flowers seem to be floating in an empty and flat background; assoc. with Buddhist concept of a floating world. There is a blue-gold style screen painting. the single surface is the iris, which seems simple. however, it is very detailed and shows a subtle change between the shapes of the flowers. vividly detailed flowers contrast with decorative, abstract gold background. there are different shapes for the flowers show depth There is an observation of nature. naturalistic details can be seen. subtle shift in tones in flowers

Title: Haniwa Horse Period: 3rd - 6th century Material: Earthenware

The horse has very simplified facial features. It depicts better body proportions, shows more understanding of human body. The horse legs were wisely used as cylinders. The head and body is more complicated, and shows more realistic propoertions. Haniwas were used to hold the large burial mounds in place; funerary objects. hold soil in tombs (placed tightly together to form barrier) There is heavy-looking armor and headwear. The sculpture is hollow inside. Geometric shape for features is used.

Title: Ise Shrine Period: Yayoi Period (4th century) Material: granary structure building (storehouse or room in a barn for threshed grain or animal feed); unpainted cypress wood

The shrine has traditional indigenous structure. There is a ground floor lifted and supported by poles --> keep inside dry for storage. The thatched roof --> lighter than tile. The architecture is based off granary buildings. There is a post-lintel system with thatched roof. The stairway and entrance are on the side of the building. The main floor of the building is raised off the ground originally functioned to prevent rotting of rice. The main floor has a wooden stairway. At the top has wheat and bark to protect the building. This is a royal Shinto shrine. There is a shrine dedicated to sun goddess Amaterasu - reserved for the Imperial family. She is one of the most important religious figures. Emperors started to be considered a God as well. Only royal family has the privilege to go inside the Shrine. The shinto shrine is empty because there is no actual imagery in shrine because Shinto deities did not take physical form (invisible). People watched for shinto on the outside of the building. This was ritually rebuilt every twenty years, reusing materials where possible 2 Bay on the short side of building and 3 bay on the long side of the building (bay). The reason is because it is made of wood, and has little protection. Still, the original structure is the model everytime it is rebuilt. There is space between the two vertical. There are several gates around the shrine. Similar shape as the Torona. There are two small buildings behind the shrine used as storage space. There is space on the estate to indicate where the next building will be. The surface has no paint, which shows respect to the original materials. There is gold on top as decoration, which indicates it is a royal shrine since no other shrines have this type of decoration.

Title: Haniwa Warrior in Armor Period: 3rd - 6th century Material: Earthenware

There are very simplified facial features. This depicts better body proportions and shows more understanding of human body. Oval shaped holes for eyes, and small hole at the bottom of mouth, triangle shape for nose. This was a common sculpture style shared by many soldiers in the Haniwa period. Soldier is depicted with a helmet on his head and armor on his body. Haniwas were used to hold the large burial mounds in place; funerary objects. There is heavy-looking armor and headwear It is hollow inside. The function of this is to hold soil in tombs (placed tightly together to form barrier). There are geometric shape for features.

Title: Five-storied Pagoda at Horyu-ji Period: Asuka Period, 7th Century

This is made in The Chinese Six-Dynasties style bracket structure. It is inspired by Indian stupa and also used to store Buddhist relics. It takes a new form from Chinese Han dynasty watch towers . central axis (yasti) composed of single very tall piece of lumber extending from ground to above the roof This building actually contains only three stories inside. There are wide roofs supported by bracket syste. only 3rd, 4th, and 5th, can be entered There are 9 rings.

Title: Golden Hall (Kondo) at Horyu-ji Period: Asuka Period, 7th century

The architecture follows Chinese Six Dynasties Style architectural form. The Golden Hall is a major building in the Buddhist temple. It is a worshipping hall. Inside the hall are Buddhist images, people go inside to pay respect to Buddha. The bottom roof of the layer is added later as it is trying to protect the wooden structure inside. The bracket system is made to protect the roof and the buildings. Only few parts were replaced, however, most of the building is still in its original material. There is a bracket system to distribute weight to vertical supports. There are wide roofs preserved wooden building wells. The building itself is very elegant and has elegant designs. There are four doors for all four directions. The south is the main entrance. It is built on stone platform as opposed to raised off ground like traditional Japanese shrines, four staircases in all sides. The shape is rectangular, not square. It contains Shiba Tori (Shaka Triad), other sculptures, and wall paintings. This is a place for worshipping Buddha.

Title: Amida Buddha Period: Heian Material: Gilted Wooden sculpture Artist: Jocho Site: Phoenix Hall in Kyoto

yosegi-zukuri - sculpture Gupta/Tang Style: urna, ushnisha, seated meditation posture, three wrinkles on neck, rounded face w/ downcast. Style: resembles Tang Style - round chubby face, thin even lines, three wrinkles on neck, downcast eyes, and all major iconography follow the olden period. and all major iconography follow the olden period. There are many minor bodhisattvas who provide music and entertainment -> pure land Buddhist beliefs of heaven. This Buddha is depiction is similar to many Buddha art pieces done before. eyesconstructed from multiple blocks of wood; allows for easy assemblage Amida Buddha believed to live in Western paradise and greet those with good karma to the after life in pure land Buddhism. meditation (dhyana) mudra. A dhyana mudra is being shown, which is a meditation mudra, indicating the importance of meditation. This is a wooden sculpture of Buddha. People began too use wood to replace bronze. There are 53 pieces of wood that were joined together, creating this. Became much more complicated than earlier times. Amida Buddha would descend to welcome the deceased to the western paradise seated upon lotus leaf - relates to pure land Buddhist belief of heaven gilding and imagery of entertainers suggest luxurious life in western paradise.

Title: Shingon School Buddhism, Ryokai Mandara

1. Mandala of the Diamond World (Kongokai) 5 Buddhas, Central one is Supreme Buddha, other four Buddhas either from supreme or different depiction 2. Mandala of the Womb World (Taizokai) Period: 9th-10th century Material: ink and color on silk Many schools developed in Japan. This is introduced by a Japanese Buddhist Monk called Kukai. He came to China to study Buddhism, and then came back to Japan. With him were other Buddhist monks and introduced another school for Buddhism. There are visual diagrams to preach teachings. graphic depiction of the spiritual universe with deities. It is served to teach basic Buddhist concepts for those who couldn't read Chinese. The mandala - diagram showing relationship b/w cosmos and various deities. There are two important aspects of Buddhism. Kukai preached and gainded lots of followers, emperor gave him land for headquarters. The Toji is the eastern temples. In this complex, is the major complex of the golden hall. 5 story pagados. There are supposed to be two pagodas, however, the second was not built. The pagoda and golden hall are much bigger than before. The tang style can be seen as there is the stone platform and the tire roof supported by the bracket system. Inside the golden hall, holds much more Buddha sculptures. Kongokai (diamond) - wisdom Buddha & bodhisattvas, each part has five buddhas, buddha has ornaments and headdress. Taizokai (womb) - compassion -multiple heads and arms on the Buddha, different ornaments, lower corner has mirror images Styles show geometrical arrangement with grid/squares. Monk Kukai developed a unique way to show buddhist doctrines to people without education without Chinese language. There are two paintings called Ryokai Mandara. There are images all throughout that depict specific meanings. All the images and patterns and motifs

Title: Dotaku Period: Yayoi Period Material: Bronze

Bronze became a popular production during this era. The bronze bells are much thinner and more decorated when compared to those of China. In japan, bronze bells are more oval shaped. The handle is also different on top as it is a semicircle, and has thin handles. The bottom and top have similar thickness. There are more decorations with depcitions of animal and human being images. It not meant to be used as instrument; instead used as decorations for rituals. People used the bronze bells to view closely. There is a turtle image. Each part of the bell, has a different image. Ther ae hunting scenes, as well as architectures. In spring and summer there are humid seasons, therefore rice is made. A wooden post structure is used to support the building. The roof is covered with roots. there is an empty space between the ground and top of the building to keep the rice dry inside the granuary structure building. There is a wooden stairway to lead people to the inside of the main floor. There is a storage house to allow rice to be in a dry condition. The decoration on the bronze bell shows artchitecture, and living style in this period. There was a rice culture at the time during this period. Another carving shows people with wooden sticks. There are two people putting wooden sticks into containers. This is the creation of the mochi. The engravings give insights into early Japanese life -> showed granary architecture and people punching rice cake (mochi) which shows rice already has become a staple in life.There are animals depicted include deer, crane, bird. It has a simple geometric depiction; give clues on life at that time.

Title: Shaka Triad Period: Asuka Period Material: Gilt bronze Site: Kondo structure in Horyu-ji temple

Budhist temples: covered with tile roofs. Used for buddhist. Bronze sculptures inside. Inside are sculptures that also follow the sixth dynasty style: elongated style and same patterns and motifs as from Chinese Six Dynasties (cascade waterfall of drapery, long face/features) Major Buddha image accompanied by boddhisattvas as well as the minor buddha on the side and the guardian king. Heirachy can be seen. There are halos. Typical crossed leg as well. There is a feel free mudra on the right hand, and wish granting mudra on the left. Back of the halo depicts the past seven buddhas. Mayahana tradition of Buddhism. Small Buddha images on the wall. Therre is an urna (auspicious mark in middle of the forehead), ushnisha (hair bun), downcast eyes. On top of the sculpture is a large canopy. Inside the canopy is the mandora, which is from the buddhist universe. Pattern of drapery - can be compared to Chinese buddha @ Binyang cave in Longmen mandora around --> decorative. Very similar to longmen as there is the elongated style with long face long neck, sloped shoulders. The seated posture as well as patterns is also very similar. The setting, however, is diffrrent. The boddhisattvas are important as it represents compassion on the left, and on the right represents wisdom. This is a standard setting called Shakya Triad. DIFF THING On the side of the wall it is covered with many mural paintings. On the depiction of one of the Buddha's (amita Buddha), it shows a major Buddha in the western paradise. People believe that people can go to heaven if they do good. HEaven is a place for afterlife. Many people believed in Buddhism because they wanted to believe in heaven.

Comparison of Main Hall and Golden Hall

Golden Hall is in sixth dynasty style while main hall is in typical japanese granary structure. Similarities: they both have the post length system. There is a horizontal and vertical post and beams. They both have the satched roof. Shrine: Covered with reeds and bars. Foundations are style: golden hall has sixth dynasty. Main hall has wooden posted directly from the ground to leave empty space from the ground as well as air to go through inside. This is very functional to keep the gran inside the granite structure. It keeps the gran in good condition. This is used for deities.

Title: Descent of Amida with Divine Attendants Period: Early 12th century Material: triptych - ink on panels Site: Mount Koya

Most important image inside building. This is the Amida Buddha. People go to the Amida Buddha to make a wish so that they can go to the western paradise. This kind of painting became popular at the time as it was associated with that belief. Style: resembles Tang Style - thin even lines, three wrinkles on neck, downcast eyes. There are patterns of lines on clouds. The linework is even, use of red color shows Chinese influence. The hand center and posture depicts the Amida Buddha. Buddha is in the center surrounded by many figures. There are two bodhisstvas. On Amida's left is Avalokitesvara holding small lotus throne upon which deceased will return, other major bodhisattva is Manjusri. kannon is wearing a headdress and assoc. with the lotus (representing the wisdom side). This represents the compassion side. This represents the Amida Buddha going to the deceased house to welcome people in the western paradise. The Boddhisttvas painting style is done in Tang style: ine ven lines, depiction of drapery, detailed depiction of garments, ornaments on body, headress have all very realistic details associated with the chinese tang style. The entertainers are all playing different music in their hands (apsaras). Japanese are very proud, and the leaves stand out a lot in the portrait. The leaves are believed to reflect local landscapes. There is a faint landscape of mountains in background resembles Japan.

Title: Standing Medicine Buddha (Yakushi) Period: 799 Site: Jingo-ji Material: ichiboku-zukuri (single-block wood)

This Buddha is characterized by medicine bottle held in left hand. It depicts future Buddha holding medicine bottle. Most sculpture were made of bronze, however, starting in this period, local materials such as wood became to be used as it was easy to find. This wooden sculpture depicted the medicine Buddha in a standing posture. It is easy to define medicine Buddha because his left hand typically holds a small bottle. Other parts of iconography for the Yakushi Buddha is the same as the Shakyamuni Buddha. Yakushi Buddha becomes important in this era as many temples became deedicated to him. The style depicts him with a round, chubby face, three wrinkles, as well as a curved body. There are curved lines seen throughout. Buddha is wearing decorative cord which is important in Japanese art. serio. us facial expression. There are schematic and stylized patternsmof drapery. Buddha has a square face, heavy body. important Buddha in Mahayana buddhism The tang period can still be seen, but Japanese art becomes discovered as well. Ichiboku-zukuri (single-block wooden sculpture), standing posture. Made from a single block of wood. This is a unique technique developed during that time and became a new trend for Buddhist images.

Title: Himeji Castle (Castle of the White Swans) Period: Momoyama (began in 1581 and completed in 1609) Site: Hyogo

This castle was built for powerful generals (shoguns) who controlled Japan; shoguns had more power than emperor - made of wood. the architecture had military advantages in mind - height allowed for easy detection of incoming attacks (watch tower function). This was a change from traditional Japanese thatched roof to tiled roof so building was not as easy to set on fire. windows are made small so that the enemy could not climb in. there is only one large entrance way. there are holes that soldiers would use to shoot their arrow. the main thing entrance is actually very small. There are small windows prevented intruders while still allowing archers to defend easily; interior is really dark so use screens to reflect light. The castle is surrounded entirely by thick wall with only one entrance. screens divide up the large interior space. the roofs are tall to be watch towers for soldiers. there is a tall base and stone foundation. the inside of the building is very large and spacious. however, it is also very dim.

Title: Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku) Period: Muromachi Site: Jishoji, Kyoto Material: wood

This has similar structure to Gold Pavilion; bell windows (Chinese Tang style). It was also not initially a buddhist temple, but the second floor ended up being turned into it where the Amida Buddha lays. The first floor is for general. There are beautiful ponds covered in many plants, and there is very beautiful scenery. There are bell shaped windows that are common in wooden structure buildings done in Tang Style. The roof is made of metal, but the other parts are made of wood, such as the post. In front there is a pond that people sit at to admire. People slide open the door, and sit. This building is smaller than the golden pavilion. The exterior wall is not built in a silver color. It has a downward sloping roof. This is used for tea rituals and making medicine. The building has sandstones arranged to have patterns and motifs, reflecting ideas of Zen Buddhism. In this complex, the garden setting reflected the Zen concept and aesthetic schemes. There are sand and stone paths to make artificial landscape; tending to these was a Zen Buddhist practice. There is a large cone that represents the mountain, and this reflects the Japanese concept of the universe.

Title: Landscape in the haboku technique Artist: Sesshu Toyo Period: Muromachi, 1495 Material: hanging scroll; ink on paper

This is a 3rd generation of the Southern Song landscape style. haboku- splashed ink / broken ink (noncontinuous strokes). the technique ; abstract, meant to be figured out through imagination and meditation. splash ink: splashes ink onto paper/silk. makes it looks like accident, then adds additional lines. in this painting, the lines are made to look like mountains. This reflects Zen Buddhism idea of spontaneity/sudden Enlightenment.

Title: Phoenix Hall (Hoodo) of the Byodō-in Period: Heian, 11th century Site: Kyoto

This is a Western Paradise = a pure land of the afterlife; Buddhist belief -> those with good karma go to western paradise. The belief that Buddhist would descend to welcome people into heaven. It is floating on a lotus pond. It is constructed on man-made pond. The building's shape resembles a phoenix bird. In spring and summer, the pond is covered in lotus. The architecture and arrangements are unique. On the top of the building is a phoenix made of bronze. The sculpture was made on people's early imagination. Style: The architectural style is still Chinese style. It contains Amida Buddha wooden sculpture. There is a stone platform and tile covered roof. This is different than a typical worshipping hall. Although it is the same function (holding major Buddha images), there is a much more unique structure. The center of the building has corridors on both sides. There are pavillions covered on each corner. It is based on Buddhism because it is believed the western paradise is floating on a lotus pond. There are vertical wooden posts, and wide eve that covers and protects the building. Most parts of this building are protected very well, and still have the original materials holding it up.

Title: Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) Period: Muromachi Period Site: Rokuon-ji, Kyoto Material: wood covered in gold

This is a very famous structure . After several battles, generals became very powerful. One of the clans became very powerful in Japan and they dominated the society in Kyoto. This was a retreat part for a powerdul generation. There are golden foils and golden paint --> golden pavillion. The original was not a Buddhist temple, but because Ashikaga became Buddhist, there are many Buddhist and Boddhisattvas depictions surrounding this area. The building is a large complex. Style: Stone platform, and supported by wooden post. It has a downward sloping shingle roof (not tile like Chinese). It combines Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. There are - bell-shaped windows -> Tang style. The structure comes from Chinese influence. On the top of the building is a gild bronze phoenix on top to indicate that the building is dedicated to Buddhism. originally a retreat for powerful generals who controlled Japan -> modified to Buddhist temple after conversion of generals. first floor is for meditation, second floor is worship hall. The first floor was left as a greeting hall for guests to stay at and enjoy the scenery: mountain, pond, and flowers.

Title: Shoso-in Site: Toshodai-ji Period: Nara Material: wood

This is an imperial treasure house at Todaiji, Nara storing imperial treasures. This temple is commisioned by the emperor. On the side of this temple has a wooden structure building, which is the treasure house of the emperor. It was built after the empress died. It became a storage house for the empress. There are two traditions combined: Chinese wooden structure building with tile roof. Bottom has Japanese granuary structure. The wooden posts supports the building, but the floor is lifted from the ground to the top as it allows fresh air to go through to keep it dry and well protected. Some features are raised floor of traditional Japanese architecture with the Chinese tiled roof - stable and lasts long. The wood is constructed so that the building can survive earthquakes. The wall of the building is unique as it has triangle shape. The wooden wall was developed for the storange house for the inside to look good and have a smooth surface. This is a unique tradition developed that many imperial people used, however, common people also began adopting. It is a functional design helped preserve treasures stored within. the walls are triangular logs --> breathe with weather.

Title: Kondo (Golden Hall) Site: Toshodai-ji Period: Nara Period

This is done in Chinese Tang style Three-Step bracket structure Tang dynasty plan; golden hall is located ON the central axis; Bodhisattva next to kondo. There is a three-step bracket structure supports roof. It is more open; one bay is reserved for open porch. The shape is rectangular (seven bays by four bays) and one-story. compared to square (3x3) of Kondo @ Horyu-ji The building is dedicated to Priest Ganjin, a well-known Chinese Buddhist monk who traveled to Japan to teach. This is dedicated to a Buddhist monk. He is a monk breaching the Buddhist law at the east coast of China. In his lifetime, he tried multiple times to go to Japan but failed. The weather was not possible as he needed to cross the ocean. the first 5 times he failed, but he made it the sixth time. The emperor granted this building to this Chinese buddhist monk. Comparison: This is a one story building compared to the other golden hall. However, the one story is a large size.

Title: Tamamushi Shrine Period: Asuka Period Material: lacquer painting on wood

This is four sided. The image depicts tamamushi - jade beetle; real beetle wings in the structure. There is a pierced gilt bronze laid over iridescent beetle wings around base, edges of framework. It has tiger jataka story on panel. There is a miniature version of larger wooden temples. This painting preserve original Chinese architecture. Bronze architecture model. In the shape of building. Althought it is bronze, it is modeled after a wooden structure building. The use of it is for people to worship Buddha in a more intimate and private space. It became popular in people's residential space as people had the shrine in their own space, rather than going to temples. There is painting on the door on the shrine that reflects the early painting style. On the side door is a depiction of the Boddhisattvas. It was made in the sixth dynasty style as the image has a long rectangular face, long neck, and elongated elegant body. The garment also reflects styles from the chinese sixth dynasty.

Title: Jar Period: Early Jomon Period Material: Rope-pattern earthenware

This is rope pressed onto the clay to make the pattern, sort of geometric. The surface has many patterns and motifs made by cord. Surface of earth is relatively soft, therefore the cord is used to create patterns and motifs. The function of this is that it is a water and food container. The pointed bottom is so that people can dig a hole in the ground and make it stable. There are circles lines. People used tree branches or bamboo sticks to create the motifs. Jomon: long historic period 10,000 years and people were hunter and gatherers.

Title: Biwa (lute) with painted leather plectrum guard Period: Late 8th century Material: wood and painted leather Site: Shoso-in at Toshodaiji

This musical instrument adopted from central Asian cultures - passed through China where it was popular during the Tang dynasty (elephant imagery is not native to Japan). This instrument is unique because of the decoration. Most music instruments have decorations, however, this one has a landscape painting depicted on it. This is important evidence of the Tang style used. This shows neighboring relationships with Tang China as, the elephant is not Chinese. There is a mountain scene on the back, but also travelers on the white elephant. Thelandscape on guard features Tang style. The foreground features musician riding an elephant and flock of geese flying between the mountains.

Title: Flame-style Storage Vessel Period: Middle Jomon Material: earthenware

This vessel has a flat bottom. There is more of a three-dimensional style of relief decorations Much more complicated patterns or reliefs. High relief type of motif. There are patterns that look like birds and animals, sun and moon, and some like flaming fire. It is used on the surface as well as the edge of the vontainer. This is a flame-style, which was very popular in Middle Jomon period - general motif of spiral type patterns The top can have shapes similar to bird heads. It is not meant to be practical. Since it is sculptural --> requires modelling. The vessel looks like its growing in front our eyes The container is used for food and water. Some may be used for ritual ceremonies, and some may be used for daily lives.

Title: Horyu-ji (Temple of the Exalted Dharma) Period: originally Asuka (607) then rebuilt in Nara (670-710) Site: Southwest of Nara

This was anunusual for Buddhist complex - only one pagoda as opposed to two arranged for symmetry. Stone platform for wooden structure buildings, which typically have vertical posts to support the building as well as horizontal beams to support the roof. There are also stone stairways. There is a tire roof that is very heavy and unique to Japan. In the middle of the gate are also sculptures. It was added into the building later. It is a very realistic sculpture. This depicts the guardians of the buddhist universe to protect it. This is built in the sixth dynasty style. The formations of the buildings follow the style of the sixth dynasty syle: there are three major buildings: The golden hall, worshipping hall, and five story. There is also a building in the back called the lecture hall. The buildings on the outside is a place for Buddhist monks to have a living space as well as activities. The building is special as it is dedicated to the prince, therefore, there are special arrangements. It was dedicated to Prince Shotoku, who was instrumental in uniting Japan and bringing Buddhism to popularity. Prince Shotoku - established Buddhism as state religion Japanese Buddhist complex includes kondo, five-story pagoda, and ko-do: A kondo (golden hall) - contains Buddhist imagery and used for worshipping Buddha A pagoda - Japanese/Chinese version of stupa, has Buddhist relics Ko-do - lecture hall used for recitation of Buddhist teachings Architecture generally modeled after Chinese Buddhist temples. There is heavy tile roof supported by bracket system. There are two layers on the roof to protect it. The central axis connect north and south (kondo and 5 story pagoda symmetrical)

Title: The Tale of Genji Period: Heian , 12th century Material: hand scroll, ink and color on paper

emaki - handscroll style of painting taken from China tsukuri-e - built-up layers of paint for vivid color onna-e - "female" style painting focused on personal and emotional stories hikime kagibana - dash for eye, hook for nose. This is an emaki painting. This is a painting thar reached the peak in Japan. It is a very famous Emaki painting. This painting is based on a novel written by a woman. She wrote a novel about the son of the emperor who is hopeless romantic. Each section depicts different chapters of the book. This painting developed a unique perspective: bird's eyes perspective. This is not really new, but because the story is happening inside the palace, it deals with the narrative through the style. Uniquely took the roof away. Some techniques used is the "tsukuri-e" the built up painting. This can be seen as it is very colorful and there are multiple uses of pigement. There is also an incline to outline the image, and then add multiple layers to the pigment so that an opaque feeling with the colors can be seen. The hikime kagibane is also used as there is a fash for eyes and hook for nose. There is a very simple depiction. regardless of gender, the facial depiction remains the same. There are a lot of female images as they are the major images. The pose and gesture, however, is not very obvious because they are covered in all times of garment. Geometric shapes cover the entire body. The feeling and expression is not conveyed by body language or facial expression, as this specific painting lacks in those two areas. The way emotion is shown is through placement. The diagonal lines additionally add detail as screens and curtains are used to create diagonal lines and divide space. The divided space shows a tense feeling. On the side of the painting is text. The director adapted these from the artist an

Title: Pine Wood Artist: Hasegawa Tōhaku Period: Momoyama Material: pair of six-fold screens; ink on paper

foggy day in endless forest suiboku-e (monochrome ink painting). there are casual & fine brushstrokes, naturalistic style. The artist used simple brushstrokes to create a very complicated painting that was considerate of space: the empty background is for imagination. the contrast of tones works well to create depth of space. strong contrast is done to create an intense atmosphere. there is a gradation of ink.

Title: Cypress Trees Artist: Kanō Eitoku Period: Momoyama Material: eight-fold screen; color, gold leaf, and ink on paper

hikime kagibana The gold helps light shine through brighter from windows. style: blue and gold style. blue is used for water and ocean. green is here for leaves and trees. gold is used in the background. close up perspective. the gold foil is used to be pasted on the back to create a flat background. The dark, layered color tracing back to Tale of Genji. there are multiple layers of opaque colors to create a strong intense feeling. the techniques used in this painting were fully developed by this time period. showing only the base of large trees. there is an abstract gold background contrasts sharply with highly detailed and vivid depictions of the foreground. There is a conbo of opposite styles (abstract v. naturalistic). The-up view; look like we are looking through a window. It looks like it's all floating

Title: Caricatures of Animals and People (Choju jinbutsu giga) Period: Heian Artist: Anonymous Material: hand scroll, ink on paper

otoko-e style (male) This personified animals as representations of nobles and Buddhist monks who held political power political satire that criticizes wrong doings of spiritual powers into the political realm. Style: The calligraphic lines vary in thickness. exaggerated expressions, body language, and gestures (otoko-e style). Bird's eye view It represents. pictorial satire on Buddhism (who gained a lot of political power and wealth) The image features foxes, rabbits, monkeys, and frogs.

Title: Red and White Plum Blossoms Artist: Ōgata Kōrin Period: Edo, 1710-1716 Material: pair of two-panel byōbu; color, gold and silver leaf on paper

there are bold decorative patterns particularly in the gold swirling patterns of the stream. this shows a naturalistic depiction of the trees. detailed plum blossom tree on either side. dramatic composition of the tree branches, important placement. full body of trees not in view. shows flowers divided by a stream in the center. the way of the water is in the middle. on the side shows two trees: one with red blossoms and one with white blossoms. V shape branch on the left. very detailed. the color scheme is very dramatic and seems almost unreal. however, it is based on real life cherry tree depictions, but are just beautifully embellished. there are detailed frictions of the flowers as the petals of flowers are diff directions. river seems to be seen from above, but trees are seen at level; perspectives are not consistent. dramatic composition of the big V shape of plum trees. style: close up perspective. the full depiction of trees is not pictures, but instead just parts of the branches.

Title: Mount Fuji Seen below a Wave at Kanagawa Artist: Katsushika Hokusai Period: Edo Material: polychrome wood block print

this is a landscape style of wood block printing. it is part of series of landscapes including the iconic Mount Fuji. the ocean wave is the focus. focus in this piece is on Japanese people battling the tremendous waves in a boat the fishermen life; dramatic scene

Title: Garden of Daisenin Site: Daitoku-ji, Kyoto Period: Muromachi

this location = headquarters of Zen Buddhism in Japan It is a dry landscape to inspire meditation in Zen Buddhism (karesansui). Style: naturalistic, flowing arrangements to create sense of tranquility. The use of rocks is to look like peaks of mountains and sand to look like waves of water. This was a method to use limited space and create a garden. It reflected Japanese aethetics associated with Zen Buddhism: simplicity and sudden enlightement toward this concept. The sandstones represent ocean scenes, rocks indicate islands and boats, in the backyard are stone bridges to represent mountains.