Asuka Period (552–645)
In 538, Japanese Emperor Kimmei was sent an enormous gilt & bronze statue of Buddha from Korea. Buddhism (552 AD) soon gained a firm hold on Japan and eventually become its official religion. Buddhism teachings showed it was possible to develop mind, body and soul, offering new horizons for human thought and education. Magnificent artworks and wondrous temples were constructed to house the many statues produced.
Textile manufacture also reached levels of excellence during the Asuka period. Chinese influence was widely felt and most converted to adopt Chinese dress codes. Textile examples housed at the Shosoin, Nara offer proof of an advanced textile industry and demonstrate the quality available at that time, naturally to the aristocracy.
In 538, Japanese Emperor Kimmei was sent an enormous gilt & bronze statue of Buddha from Korea. Buddhism (552 AD) soon gained a firm hold on Japan and eventually become its official religion. Buddhism teachings showed it was possible to develop mind, body and soul, offering new horizons for human thought and education. Magnificent artworks and wondrous temples were constructed to house the many statues produced.
Following the arrival of Buddhist monks, artists and artisans from China or Korea, Japan’s first great temple complex, Asukadera (588) was completed. The Asuka period was further guided by the enlightened rule of Prince Shotoku, a devout Buddhist, who imported many laws and general ways of life from China.
Prince Shotoku ordered the construction of Horyu-ji Temple at Nara (607) as his private temple. It was to become a great cultural influence and is currently the Far East’s oldest surviving wooden structure. The complex consists of 41 separate buildings. Temples were constructed within a walled precinct which had a main gate to the south. Buildings were formally grouped around a courtyard presenting a blank exterior to outside world. Within would be a main pavilion, a multi-storeyed pagoda, accommodation for monks, a reading room and a refectory. Inside, carefully laid out gardens were arranged around apartments with verandas. These building were mostly made from wood and bamboo with stone used to build foundations and lower walls. This proved sound in a land of regular seismic activity.
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| Photo - thanks again to Wiki. (clearly I was remiss & off my camera oats that day!) |
Textile manufacture also reached levels of excellence during the Asuka period. Chinese influence was widely felt and most converted to adopt Chinese dress codes. Textile examples housed at the Shosoin, Nara offer proof of an advanced textile industry and demonstrate the quality available at that time, naturally to the aristocracy.
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| Prince Shotoku with his son & brother in aristocratic dress of the day. Wiki |
