Inviting Fortune : Auspicious Symbols in Japanese Art
The Museum of the Imperial Collections, Sannomaru Shozokan
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The New Year marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. Throughout history, people have sought to invite good fortune at this time by incorporating auspicious symbols into their celebrations. One example rooted in Chinese traditions is Mount Penglai, the island of the immortals. In Japan, miniature versions with cranes and turtles were crafted to invoke longevity. Mount Penglai’s associations with paradise were eventually transposed to Japan’s own Mount Fuji, a peak historically venerated as a sacred mountain.
The phoenix is another popular motif that originated in China, where it was revered as a legendary bird heralding the arrival of a great sovereign. In Japan, the phoenix was frequently incorporated into paintings and decorative arts as a symbol of nobility, particularly works associated with the Imperial Household. Other mythical beasts, like the majestic qilin and Chinese lion, came to embody wishes for peace and harmony.
This exhibition explores the rich world of auspicious symbols in Japanese art, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through a collection of works brimming with hope for a bright future.
The phoenix is another popular motif that originated in China, where it was revered as a legendary bird heralding the arrival of a great sovereign. In Japan, the phoenix was frequently incorporated into paintings and decorative arts as a symbol of nobility, particularly works associated with the Imperial Household. Other mythical beasts, like the majestic qilin and Chinese lion, came to embody wishes for peace and harmony.
This exhibition explores the rich world of auspicious symbols in Japanese art, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through a collection of works brimming with hope for a bright future.
Schedule | Jan 4 (Sat) 2025-Mar 2 (Sun) 2025 Opening Hours Information
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| Fee | Adults ¥1000; University Students ¥500; High School Students and Under, Seniors 70 & Over, Persons with Disability Certificates + 1 Companion free. | ||||
| Website | https://pr-shozokan.nich.go.jp/2024inviting-fortune/index_en.html | ||||
| Venue | The Museum of the Imperial Collections, Sannomaru Shozokan https://shozokan.nich.go.jp/en/ | ||||
| Location | 1-8 Chiyoda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0001 | ||||
| Access | 5 minute walk from the North exit of Otemachi Station on the Marunouchi, Tozai, Chiyoda and Hanzomon lines. 15 minute walk from the Marunouchi North exit of JR Tokyo Station. |
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