Japanese Influence

Ogata Kōrin, "Irises at Yatsuhashi (Eight Bridges)," after 1709, pair of six-panel folding screens; ink and color on gold leaf on paper, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, USA.

Japan's Introduction

In 1854 the Americans, under Commodore Perry, forcibly opened Japan's ports to international trade after their 220-year policy of self-imposed isolation. Japanese goods began to flood the European market, creating fascination with the art and design of that country.

Japanese Goods

Of particular interest were the stylized organic motifs, circular designs (mon), and geometric designs that dominated the Japanese design aesthetic. British consumers began purchasing Japanese goods, such as fans, porcelain, prints and paintings, and screens. They even stained their furniture ebony in imitation of Japanese lacquer.

Ogata Kōrin, "Writing Box with Eight Bridges," 18th century, lacquered wood, Tokyo National Museum, Japan.

James McNeill Whistler, "The Princess from the Land of Porcelain," 1863-65, oil on canvas, Freer Gallery of Art, USA.

James McNeill Whistler, "Nocturne: Blue and Gold - Old Battersea Bridge," c. 1872-75, oil on canvas, Tate Britain, England.

Anglo-Japanese Style

The simplicity and elegance of form was in direct contrast to the overcrowded and busy designs of the Victorians. British artists, notably James McNeill Whistler, began incorporating these objects into their art (japonaiserie) and over time absorbed the tenets of the Japanese aesthetic, which became reflected more subtly in their art (japonisme).

Designers E. W. Godwin and Christopher Dresser were similarly inspired. Gradually a new style emerged within the Aesthetic movement known as the Anglo-Japanese style.