Takano Shozan (1889-1976) was born in Kumamoto Prefecture. As he showed an aptitude for finely detailed work since childhood, Shozan started learning lacquer art at the technical apprentice school in Kumamoto and went on to the Kyoto Municipal Art College to cultivate his skills. Furthermore, he entered the Tokyo School of Fine Arts, where he mastered makie technique under the strict guidance of Shirayama Shosai (1853-1923), one of the Imperial Household Artists. Shozan was later patronized by Hosokawa Moritatsu (1883-1970), and worked as a live-in bodyguard by day and concentrated on his creating activities by night. In recognition of his achievements in numerous exhibitions such as the Imperial Art Academy Exhibition, he was designated as the holder of Important Intangible Property for his makie technique in 1955.
This exhibition arranges the displays in three chapters; “Urushi Works of the Modern Period”, “Takano Shozan and the Modern Crafts”, “Paintings of the Modern Period”, and introduces all the twelve works of Takano Shozan in the collection of Eisei Bunko Museum.
Shozan was known as an open hearted person, who chose to speak the lively Kumamoto dialect throughout his life. However, contrary to his dynamic personality, his art works are exquisitely made with utmost care with his various techniques of makie. We are pleased to offer you an opportunity to enjoy the excellent works of Takano Shozan in this exhibition commemorating the 130th anniversary of his birth.
The 130th anniversary of his birth Takano Shozan
ー Virtuoso technique of Urushi ー
April 27, 2019 to July 3, 2019
Locations
Eisei Bunko Museum
1-1-1 Mejiro-dai
Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
Telephone: +81 3-3941-0850