Japan: The Shaping of Daimyo Culture, 1185-1868

Japan: The Shaping of Daimyo Culture, 1185-1868 is the catalogue of the landmark National Gallery of Art exhibition on the artistic legacy of Japan’s daimyo. This digital PDF edition is ready for instant download after purchase.

Edited by Yoshiaki Shimizu, the book presents more than 330 works from over one hundred collections. It spans the Kamakura period of 1185 through the end of the Edo period in 1868.

Book Overview

This catalogue explores the culture of the daimyo, the feudal lords who controlled Japan’s provinces for much of the medieval and early modern ages. It treats daimyo not only as warriors but also as patrons and practitioners of the arts.

The volume includes a historical introduction by Martin Collcutt and sections on portraiture, calligraphy, religious sculpture, painting, arms and armor, lacquer, ceramics, textiles, tea ceremony utensils, and Nō-related works. It also contains a bibliography and literature section.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• Over 330 catalogue entries covering major categories of Japanese art and material culture.
• An introductory essay on daimyo and daimyo culture by Martin Collcutt.
• A note on daimyo and art by editor Yoshiaki Shimizu.
• Works from more than one hundred public and private collections in Japan.
• Sections devoted to arms and armor, lacquer, ceramics, textiles, tea ceremony utensils, and Nō-related works.
• A bibliography and literature listing for further study.

Why This Book Matters

The exhibition was the first attempt anywhere, including Japan, to explore the artistic legacy of the daimyo from 1185 to 1868. It redressed a longstanding Western oversight that had favored samurai and shogun while neglecting the daimyo.

As a scholarly catalogue, it remains a valuable reference for students of Japanese art, history, and material culture.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This is a digital download, so no physical item will be shipped. Access is available immediately after purchase.

The PDF works with compatible reading apps, including Kindle apps, tablets, desktop computers, and mobile devices.

FAQ

How do I receive the book? After purchase, you can download the PDF instantly.

Will a physical copy be shipped? No, this is a digital product only.

Which devices are supported? The PDF can be opened on devices with PDF or Kindle reading apps, including tablets, desktops, and smartphones.

Download the PDF and explore the artistic world of Japan’s daimyo.