Kyoto treasures at the Musée Cernuschi, last days

Japanese painting in the spotlight... The Musée Cernuschi is devoting an exhibition to the works of the Rinpa school, one of the major historical schools of Japanese decorative painting, from October 26, 2018 to January 27, 2019. Entitled Kyoto Treasures, Three Centuries of Rinpa Creation, this retrospective plunges visitors into the heart of an unusual artistic production that appeared in the early 17th century and continues to this day, having become an artistic movement in its own right.

A unique artistic movement in the history of Japanese art, it differs from other schools " where style is transmitted directly, from master to pupil ", since the artists of this movement met and still meet " by spiritual and aesthetic affinity ". A style defined by pure forms " enhanced by vivid colors and highly legible compositions ". Works inspired by nature, literature and classical theater.

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In all, over 60 works (paintings, engravings, ceramic, wood and lacquer decorations, etc.) are presented in a 4-part chronological sequence, according to the different generations of artists in the Rinpa movement. As soon as visitors arrive, the scenography of the first rooms highlights the gold leaf work, conveying the magnificence of these works. The aim? To enable visitors to understand the techniques used by Rinpa artists, whose work aims to "bring beauty into everyday life".

Due to the fragility of some of the works, their presentation is "evolving" and " integrates four major rotations " throughout the duration of this retrospective. The exhibition will even close its doors for a few days, from December 10 to 14, 2018, the time of the most important rotation.

(Credits: Work classified as a "National Treasure" in Japan)

Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.