Japan

Originating, like all arts of the Far East, from China, which provided it with techniques and models, Japanese art is nonetheless distinguished by the originality of its creations. When Japan opened up to continental influences under the guise of Buddhism in the 6th and 7th centuries, it diligently learned from the artisans who came from Korea to teach them.

The first true works of Japanese art date back to the 2nd millennium BCE when ceramics moved beyond its strictly utilitarian role to become ornamental. Around the same time, artisans also produced shell masks, and later clay masks, as well as figurines known as dogū.

On the eve of the Common Era, Japan was invaded by peoples from China and Korea and adopted part of their cultural traditions. This influence can be seen in the craftsmanship of copper and bronze.

Japanese society was transformed around the 6th century when Buddhism spread throughout the archipelago. Culture evolved in parallel, with Korean, Chinese, and also Indian influences, particularly in architecture, sculpture, and the adoption of lacquer techniques. The main works of this period are related to religion, including Buddha statues, gongs, and incense burners.

Painting developed around the same time and quickly reached an unparalleled level of refinement. By the 9th century, Japanese painting began to differentiate itself from Chinese art, adopting the yamato-e style, highlighted by the Tosa School, while the first Japanese narrative scrolls, the emaki, appeared. The Japanese also developed the Chinese technique of woodblock printing and produced their own prints, characteristic of the ukiyo-e artistic movement in the 17th century. Weapons, particularly Japanese swords, are also considered works of art and must be crafted using specific techniques.

Japanese art is characterized by the finesse of its decorations. Artisans became masters in the art of engraving, ivory and lacquer work, calligraphy, and miniatures.

To obtain an appraisal of Japanese antiques, it is essential to consult a professional who can carry out an expertise of prints, jewelry, porcelains, and paintings, particularly before an auction focused on Japan.

Specialized in Asian art, the expert bases their evaluation on the study of the materials, techniques used, and themes depicted to determine the object's period of creation."