Once in a while over the long centuries, a remarkable deviation might occur within the artisanal realms of Japan, usually owing to the political and social climate of differing epochs, like when the Nara (AD 710 to 784) preference for monolithic bronze statues was passed over for the Heian (AD 794 to 1185) penchant for enigmatic wooden figures. Historically Japanese aesthetics have remained distinct and immovably set for remarkably long stretches, perpetuated by a system that involves a lengthy apprenticeship with the master from one generation to the next. This system called dento survived largely intact into modernity, extending a lifeline to many of Japan's cherished crafts, from paper making to wood block printing, into the present day.
Enter the modern era and naturally a remarkable thirst for change within Japan's design zeitgeist emerges. Avangardism entered the mainstream consciousness over the Showa period (AD 1926 to 1989) and experimentations with traditional forms became an expressive outlet from the '60s until today.
Exacerbated by the success of Japan's branding around the world, creative forces from fashion designers to architects progressively and ingeniously imbued old forms into the modern frame, leading to the proliferation of mass production methods to meet rising demands. This squarely led to the demise of many old métiers in Japan but traditional crafts and craftsmanship in Kyoto escaped total annihilation because discerning entrepreneurs and hoteliers, buoyed by tourism prospects and faith in local artistry, had very specific ideas about what truly defines a quintessentially Japanese - and luxurious - experience in Kyoto. And at the very forefront of that discernment is the city's deep artisanal roots.
OLD GLORIES RESTORED
Esta historia es de la edición June 2024 de Prestige Singapore.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición June 2024 de Prestige Singapore.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Sailing Into A Dream
Scenes from the fantasy feature Game of Thrones come to life in the otherworldly landscapes of the Arctic Circle.
Here Come The Sun Seats
Italian furniture has long held the crown for blending luxurious, sophisticated design with impeccable craftsmanship.
ABSOLUMENT FAB
France's premier fair for fine-art and antiques returns for its third edition inside its new home in the Grand Palais.
Through the Director's Lens
Filmmaker JIA ZHANGKE and his protégé RAFAEL MANUEL share their perspectives on life, cinema and their current projects.
THE CUTTING EDGE
Having long played quiet supporting roles in the gem industry, gem cutters are finally having their day in the sun. Four acclaimed independent master gem cutters share more about their love of the craft and the creation of their best pieces.
Spheres of Power
Following up on the gold- and titanium-focused Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams launch collection, the superstar now turns to pearls for a softer, but no less striking, second act.
Horological Masterpieces Reimagined
Beyond the wrist, these timekeepers transcend all traditional boundaries.
WILD IMAGINATION
Cartier's latest category-spanning Panthère de Cartier novelties showcase the endless ways in which the panther continues to inspire.
READY FOR ACTION
The latest watch to come from the celebrated Richard Mille and McLaren partnership looks set to be another trailblazing timepiece.
THE RIGHT ANGLES
Twenty-five years after the launch of its last new collection, Twenty-4, Patek Philippe introduces the Cubitus range.