Art and Culture in Japanese History

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to Japanese history, art, and culture from the Nara to the Edo periods.

Nara Period

The period in Japan from 710 to 794, noted for the establishment of Buddhism as the state religion.

Tōdai-ji

A Buddhist temple complex in Nara, famous for its Great Buddha (Daibutsu).

Heian Period

The period in Japan from 794 to 1185 characterized by a flourishing of art and culture, as well as the emergence of esoteric Buddhism.

Zen Buddhism

A form of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and intuition rather than ritual worship or study of scriptures.

Kinkaku-ji

A Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, also known as the Golden Pavilion, completed in 1397.

Wabi-sabi

A Japanese aesthetic that finds beauty in imperfection and transience.

Muromachi Period

The time from 1333 to 1573 in Japan known for developments in the arts, especially the tea ceremony and Zen gardens.

Tai-an Teahouse

A famous teahouse designed by Sen no Rikyū, reflecting the principles of simplicity and natural beauty in the tea ceremony.

Kintsugi

The Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum.

Emperor Shōmu

The emperor during the Nara period who played a key role in establishing Buddhism as a state religion.