Japanese History Craftwork and the Arts History Alive 8.9

Introduction Japanese artists and craftspeople aimed for perfection The creation of some objects also had a religious connection – Swords were believed to have their own spirit – Tea ceremony came from a Buddhist ritual – Sake was used in some Shinto festivals

Painting In early feudal times strongly influenced by Chinese styles by mid-Heian a more distinctive Japanese style developed Both coloured and monochrome (usually ink) became popular Often scenes from famous stories or legends were portrayed

Calligraphy The art of beautiful writing with brush and ink is still taught in Japan Competitions are held and practitioners are graded similar to the way martial artists are.

Lacquer Lacquer is made from tree sap with pigment added to colour it Painted in many layers it forms a hard glossy coating It can be inlaid with objects like pearly shell, gold or silver leaf

Pottery Japanese pottery and ceramics can be of very high artistic quality Items made for tea ceremony are often examples of this

Review How were Japanese art and literature often connected? How did religious beliefs affect Japanese art and craft? Write an explanatory label for the lacquer box shown in source 4. It should explain the process and materials used to make it.

Calligraphy