Kamakura
(1185-1333)
During this time, the Mongols under Kublai Khan reached
Korea in 1259 and sent a fleet to attack Japan in 1274. Mongol soldiers were
repulsed and again in 1281. Zen Buddhism
arrived with monks escaping these Mongol invasions. Zen doctrine, although initially treated with
some suspicion, appealed to the Samurai class with its stark art forms filled
with tension and drama. Zen’s austerity
influenced architecture with buildings presenting a simple, lineal grace and rational
structure.
Despite a society
based on warrior values, artisans concentrated on improving techniques and art
flourished. Toshiro visited China in
1223 and returned setting up a kiln at Seto – this became world famous.
Painting in inks became increasingly popular.
Ever evolving architecturally, the Kofuku-ji
Temple complex at Nara had a 3 storeyed pagoda added (1185). Later a 5 storeyed (1426) storeyed pagoda was
added too. Japanese sculptor, Unkei, carved two stunning guardians (1203)
which flank the Todai-ji Temple in
Nara. His realistic works, and that of
his sons, was based on close observation of individuals and meticulous studies
of personality.
This was a period of warrior values and
adventure. It was also a period of civil
war and strife due to clan clashes. Eventually,
the seat of government was relocated by the Minamoto clan to Kamakura, a
seaside village. Art became more austere
and, because of Samurai influence, to centre on a belief in the afterlife. Even
so, portrayal of individuals was given realistic treatment. Temples at Nara (Todai-ji) were restored although a new style of pagoda, reminiscent
of the Chinese style was introduced. Contact
with China had been revived.
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| From Wiki |
Chion-in was
originally built in 1234 to honour the founder of Amida Buddha in Japan. Its temple beams are carved with the Tokugawa
family crest (three hollyhock leaves) and nightingale floors (squeaky) to warn
of intruders. The grounds are the site
for a monthly market and although the temple is a National Treasure, I need not
explain where our attention was diverted.
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| Samurai Armour (Wiki) looks quite surreal even for body armour (Kamakura Period) |
