What do you know about Japanese paintings and art? Japanese art is brimming with creativity and has many special aspects! Are you reading along? Or would you rather dive right into our Asia collection ?! Anyway, we have listed 5 facts for you.
1. Religion and belief plays a big role in many Japanese paintings
The ancient Japanese discovered that divinity manifested itself in nature itself. For example, they believed that blossoming peaks, flowing rivers and venerable trees were sanctified by the gods who lived there, who were also called 'Kami'. This Japanese religion is called 'Shinto'; you see it a lot in Japanese paintings . The beautiful nature that you can often find in Japanese paintings can be seen as a portrait of the sacred world and the Gods who live in it! You can see this in the Kanagawa Wave print and the Noji print!
2. Many Japanese paintings have their origin in Chinese art
You might not expect this, but many of the Japanese paintings are inspired by Chinese art! In the seventh and eighth centuries, Japanese art was dominated by Chinese art, and it was not until the ninth century that Japanese artists began to turn away from this Chinese influence. So it was only much later that Japanese artists started doing their own thing.
3. Later, Japanese artists were influenced by the West
The opening of trade routes with America and Europe in the nineteenth century marked a change in Japanese paintings . Japanese artists were again influenced by Western artists during this time! The Japanese's initial response to Western art forms was a frank acceptance, and the Technological Art School was opened in 1876, with Italian instructors to teach Western methods. 
4. Japanese arts are passed down from generation to generation
Making Japanese paintings and art requires skills of skilled craftsmen and artists. Therefore, traditional arts have been passed down from generation to generation from family members, master or teacher to student. Hereby, the mantra 'Shi, Ha Ri' is often repeated by traditional artists as an encouragement to transcend boundaries in the pursuit of creativity! Can you see this in the Japanese paintings in our Asia collection ?
5. The Edo period brought beautiful Japanese paintings
During the Edo period (1615-1868) Japan flourished and with it Japanese paintings and art , especially 'Ukiyo-e' paintings! Ukiyo-e literally means 'the floating world'. These paintings emphasized the urban lifestyle, fashion sensitivity and beauty in Japan.
The women featured in these works of art are often depicted with elaborate hairstyles, heavy make-up and decorative clothing and were seen as the 'ideal woman'. This is reflected in many Japanese paintings ! In this way the emotion, beauty and character of the portrayed ladies are expressed as well as possible. You can also see this in, for example, the Koto or Snow Walk print!
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