This March 2013 issue of Chiisana Tsubomi (小さな蕾) is a beautifully produced Japanese magazine devoted to antique art, ceramics, traditional crafts, and museum collections. Published as an information journal for kobijutsu (古美術, classical and antique art), the magazine is an excellent reference for collectors and admirers of Japanese material culture.
The principal feature of this issue is 「五島美術館、再開！V」, continuing the celebration of the reopening of the Gotoh Museum (五島美術館) and its commemorative exhibition The Beauty of the Ages (時代の美). This installment introduces works from the Momoyama and Edo periods, as well as art from China and Korea, providing a fascinating view of the cultural exchanges and collecting traditions that shaped Japanese aesthetics.
The striking cover features an earthy, richly fired tea bowl, immediately evoking the restrained and imperfect beauty prized in the Japanese tea tradition.
Other features introduce treasures from the Mitsui Memorial Museum (三井記念美術館), including material related to the Mitsui family's hina dolls and a special exhibition on vessels associated with sake. The issue also touches on Goryeo celadon (高麗青磁) and continues regular columns devoted to Ko-Imari, Nabeshima ware, textiles, flowers, and museum collections.
Rich in photographs and specialist information, this issue makes a wonderful reference for anyone interested in Japanese tea ceramics, Momoyama and Edo-period art, Chinese and Korean antiques, museum collections, and traditional craftsmanship.
Size: 13 x 18cm
144 pages
