Discoveries and experiences from around the world
On a working visit to Japan this summer, I finally managed to fit in a visit to the Teien Art Museum in Tokyo. I have long wanted to see this museum, as the building is a beautifully preserved example of the art deco style that took the European art world by storm in the 1920's and 30's. And of course the art deco movement is the inspiration for our designs at Jean Dunand.
While my main focus was on the art deco architecture, it houses an absolute treasure trove of art deco: decors, details and art works by many great French (and Japanese) artists, including glass reliefs by René Lalique, marbles and wall reliefs by Leon Blanchot, iron works by Raymond Subes, mantelpieces and oil murals by Henri Rapin, not to mention the incredible ceiling lights, chandeliers, stairway handrails, and the splendid gardens and teahouse or “Koka” (luminous flower in Japanese).
A superb bronze panther by Swiss sculptor Edouard-Marcel Sandoz
The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum used to be the residence of Prince Asaka, the eighth son of Prince Kuni, who lived here with his wife, princess Nobuko, the eighth daughter of Emperor Meiji. The house was completed in 1933, and today it is largely as it was then.
After the war it was put to various temporary uses, serving at one time as the official residence of the foreign minister and at another time as a state guest house. Then, half a century after it was built, the Prince Asaka Residence was given a new lease of life as a museum run by the Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture.
Not an exhibit, but a work of art radiator cover
The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum opened it's gates in 1983. The principal structures were designed by French designer Henri Rapin (1873-1939), and many of the decorative features to be found inside were imported from France and other foreign countries. However, the basic plan of the building and some parts of interior decoration were undertaken by architects of the Imperial Household Department, adding an authentically Japanese feel to the Art Deco style.
Unlike most museums, the building itself an art treasure and demands a critical appreciation that recognizes the spiritual relationship between exhibit and venue. Surrounded by a green and spacious park, the museum is blessed with an environment that allows one to enjoy the meeting of nature, architecture and art.
The Teien Art Museum is an extraordinary island of beauty and peace in the middle of busy Tokyo, where people come to sit, rest, admire, chat or simply breathe. It is a very spiritual place with a grand soul.
For more information, please visit www.teien-art-museum.ne.jp
