The Arts in Japanese Society

3 units

A contextual investigation of the arts of Japan, focusing on issues of patronage and social function. This class deliberately discards imported Eurocentric concepts of fine art, great artist, style, masterpiece, and influence as well as Japanese constructions of uniqueness. Topics will range from the 3rd to the 20th centuries, and will focus on the following environments: tombs, cities, palaces, shrines, temples, residences, castles, teahouses, brothels, shops, museums and exhibitions.