French ceramics at the time of Impressionism 1866-1886 Maturity of Japonisme Closed

　In April 1874, Paris hosted the First Impressionist Exhibition—often considered the most groundbreaking group exhibit in the history of modern art. Displayed works included Monet’s Impression, Sunrise, which simply yet boldly depicts a natural setting where the day’s first rays of light are glittering on the water’s surface. However, critics initially found the work to be lacking in detail and labeled the artists featured in the exhibition as “Impressionists,” thus unwittingly giving the group its name. A similar revolution was occurring at the time in ceramics as well, where artists employed new techniques and Japonism to create works that evoked a more modernist sensibility.

The etcher Félix Bracquemond, whose works were featured at the First Impressionist Exhibition, was one such artist influenced by Japanese art. After meeting Charles Haviland, owner of Limoges porcelain maker Haviland and famed collector of Japanese artworks, Bracquemond was hired as art manager of the company. There, he began to display a talent for nontraditional design that employed a variety of influences, including Japonism. In the early 1880s, he started using new techniques such as stoneware and copper-red glazing. Such experimentation helped Bracquemond develop Haviland into one of France’s greatest ceramic makers.

In 1974, the Céramique Impressionniste exhibition was held in Paris to mark the centenary of the First Impressionist Exhibition. By displaying ceramic works decorated in the style of Impressionist paintings under a name that emphasized the link between the works and Impressionism, the exhibition brought a new sense of renown to these works.

This first-ever Japanese exhibition dedicated to Impressionist ceramics will present visitors with an introduction to ceramic works decorated in the Impressionist style, with a focus on the Haviland family’s private collection. Other featured works will include late 19th century French tableware and ceramic works displaying a deep fondness for Eastern and Japanese aesthetics, as well as Impressionist paintings by Monet and Renoir. A total 155 works will be on display.