The custom of greeting cards can be traced to ancient China and Egypt. Today they still function in the same way, to convey messages of celebration. Greeting cards arose in Europe in the 13th century, from printed New Year’s Day greetings made by Germans on handmade paper. At the time, this would... »
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Yukata
Known as the summer kimono, the yukata is worn by both men and women during the warm months in Japan. Traditionally it was worn by Japanese elites after bathing, because of its lightweight cotton material. The yukata eventually came into vogue in the... »
Types of Kimono
Various kimono exist for specific events. These include: Hinamatsuri: These kimono are supposed to only be worn by dolls to celebrate happiness in childhood. Furisode: This is the most formal kimono that can be worn by an unmarried women and young girls. They are marked... »
Kimono
In Japanese kimono means “the thing worn.” Variations have been worn since the early Nara period (roughly 7th and 8th century), influenced by Chinese fashion. During the... »
Japanese Lacquerware (urushi)
Japanese Lacquerware, also known as urushi, is a treasured art form in the East and West. It likely began use as a protective and decorative coating six thousand... »
Terracotta
Terracotta is type of baked clay that literally means “baked earth” in Italian. It has long been used for sculptured figures and ornamentation in architecture. Terracotta gets its characteristic... »
Marble
Marble is a metamorphic rock that is commonly used in art and architecture. As a favorite medium for Classical Age and Renaissance sculptors and architects, marble has become a... »
Kutani Pottery
Kutani pottery takes it name from the Japanese region in which it is made. Kutani pottery has long been cherished for its elaborate designs and lush colors. The earliest forms... »