Opening Day Lecture/Demonstration: Buddhist Art and Courtly Elegance

The masterworks of art from the Tokyo National Museum on view in the MFAH exhibition Elegant Perfection exemplify the integral role that Buddhism and imperial court culture played in the development of Japan’s cultural traditions. Buddhist teachings and works of art were introduced to Japan in the sixth century. Their influence on the aesthetic sensibility of every level of Japanese society, from the court to the public, has been immeasurable.