Painting, calligraphy and Japanese literature

“In Praise of Shadows” (In’ei Raisan) was written by Tanizaki Jun’ichirō in 1933. It is a philosophical essay that explores the aesthetic concepts specific to Japanese culture. Far from the luminous exuberance of Western modernity, Tanizaki celebrates the beauty of shadows. He celebrates the darkness and its subtle nuances that characterize Japanese tradition. This work, …

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Okumura Masanobu, born in 1686 and died in 1764, is an iconic figure in Japanese art. He is recognized as one of the first masters of ukiyo-e, a style of woodblock print that flourished during the Edo period. Masanobu contributed to the evolution of this art form. And he also played a key role in …

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Hiroshi Yoshida (1876-1950) is an emblematic figure of 20th-century Japanese printmaking. Famous for his delicate and luminous landscapes, he was able to combine traditional Japanese printmaking techniques with Western influences. Particularly through the use of perspective and play of light. The Beginnings of a Versatile Artist Born in Kurume, Japan, Yoshida showed a great aptitude …

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Kirino Natsuo is an iconic figure in contemporary Japanese literature. She is known for her powerful and often dark stories. Her novels explore the murkiest aspects of Japanese society. Born on October 7, 1951 in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, she has become one of the most distinctive and acclaimed voices in her country. Particularly thanks to …

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Ishikawa Toyonobu (1711-1785) is an iconic figure in 18th-century Japanese art. He is known for his crucial role in the evolution of ukiyo-e. It is a genre of woodblock prints. It depicts scenes from everyday life, landscapes, and portraits of courtesans. Active during the Edo period, Toyonobu left his mark on his era with his …

Ishikawa Toyonobu: A Master of Ukiyo-e and Edo Culture Read More »

Sesshū Tōyō (1420-1506) is one of the greatest masters of Chinese ink painting in Japan. He is famous for his unique style that has marked the history of Japanese art. He is the eminent representative of sumi-e. Sumi-e is an ink painting technique. Sesshū was able to transcend Chinese influences. He created a work deeply …

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The “House of Sleeping Beauties” by Kawabata Yasunari is a poignant Japanese novel. It plunges the reader into the depths of loneliness and human desire. Published in 1961, this Japanese literary masterpiece explores the themes of old age, memory, and the fleeting beauty of youth through a delicate and poetic narrative. Synopsis The plot takes …

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Mori Rintarō, known as Ōgai Mori, is one of the most influential figures in modern Japanese literature. This article explores in depth the life and works of Ōgai Mori. It highlights its lasting impact on Japanese culture. Ōgai Mori left his mark on literature with major works in his life such as “Gan” and “Vita …

Ōgai Mori Life and Works of the Japanese Literary Master Read More »