The course introduces canonic artworks of Japanese paintings and sculptures in a chronological order, from the earthenware of the Jomon period to contemporary installations. We will also survey Buddhist sculptures, illustrated handscrolls, ink paintings, woodblock prints, and gilded screens. 

The course comprises of historical lectures and class discussions, in which we analyze together the artworks. The course holds two aims (1)  acquaint the students with the visual language of artworks from Japan (2) teach basic concepts of Japanese art history and aesthetics. In the end of the course, when looking at a Japanese painting, print, or sculpture, the student would be able to guess the subject, period, and technique of the artwork, and suggest the historical background within which it was created.