Netsuke: Miniature Art in the Palm of Your Hand March 16, 2009

Before the introduction of European fashions, Japan was quite literally a "world without pockets." Men carried their belongings in small pouches or boxes suspended from the sash of their kimono with cords and a toggle, or netsuke. Commissioned by only the best artisans, netsuke were valuable, enviable symbols of status. But when Japan’s ports opened to foreign trade and the Japanese began to adopt the western style of dress, netsuke fell out of use and were soon forgotten. The extraordinary miniature carvings had captivated many foreigners, however, and soon found their way into collections in the U.S. and abroad. Today this traditional craft has evolved into a vibrant international art form.

To celebrate the opening of the exhibit Netsuke: Miniature Art in the Palm of Your Hand, Mr. Robert Kinsey will give a lecture at the Japan Information & Culture Center on Tuesday, March 17th at 6:30pm. Joe and Etsuko Price will also be in attendance.

The opening lecture is free and open to the public. Reservations are required. Please RSVP to: 202-238-6949 or email jiccrsvpspring09@embjapan.org with your name and the number in your party.

The gallery is open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
Special viewing on Saturday, May 2. Closed March 20, April 10 and May 25.

Official Website: http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/index.htm