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I had always considered pre-modern Japanese art as lacking “realism”. The lack of tonal change or perspective and the “flat,” one-dimensional look did not reflect reality.

Since beginning my art studies, my research into pre-modern Japanese art has led me to realise that rather than lacking realism, pre-modern Japanese art depicted realism differently from Western art. Unlike Western art, the focus was more on capturing the essence or spirit of the subject rather than creating an illusion of depth. Their one-dimensional style supports the Japanese aesthetic preference, which often values simplicity and subtlety. I have even considered that using mineral pigments instead of oil contributed to the one-dimensional appearance.

Do you agree? Do you disagree? Do you have a different perspective?

I am interested to hear what this group thinks.

Dear Mio,

Every post breaking the flood of the regular post for translation help in favor of a real interest in art is very welcome.

While I easily can agree to "the focus was more on capturing the essence or spirit of the subject" a lot of your post made me cringe.

Your misunderstandings are mainly created by the simplistic use of an already simplistic and highly eclectic modern sience - art history. This modern sience is for the better part of a century trying with the use of a rather useless methodology, silly categorizations and an especially vage terminology to avoid the serious study of highly individualistic achievements - the artistic skills, quality and insight, in their historical context. modern art histor has become probably the greatest obstacle in the enjoyment and understanding of artworks.

Your presumptions on art (western and Japanese) limit your understanding from the beginning and do not reflect the multitude of possibilities you could find. To help you to overcome them I add 3 photos of Japanese paintings.

If Japanese painting would not have an interest in creating an illusion of depth, movement and power I surely would not spend my time here.

peter

Hi Peter,

I’m terribly sorry for making you cringe on your weekend.

Thank you very much for replying to my post.

Until a few months ago, I enjoyed my art as a hobby. Now that I have begun my studies, I’m trying to understand better what’s behind specific artworks, concepts, historical contexts, etc.

One way to learn more is through posts like this. I’m sure I will make many more “assumptions” in future and will hopefully receive honest, insightful and forthright responses like yours.

Thank you for your time, guidance and for sharing the 3 photos.

Regards,
Mio

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