The Life of Animals in Japanese Art. May 5 through July 28, 2019 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

The Life of Animals in Japanese Art. May 5 through July 28, 2019 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

Haniwa Horse, Japan, earthenware, 6th century CE. Image courtesy of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in Los Angeles, California. These votive figurines were placed on top of tombs for the wealthy elite in Japan from 300 to 600 CE.

For those on the West Cost a smaller version will run Sept. 8 through December 8, 2019 at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. “The Life of Animals in Japanese Art” will feature 330 pieces representing many media, from prints and sculpture to textiles and ceramics. Spanning 15 centuries organized around eight themes, including ancient Japan, the Japanese zodiac, religion, folklore, nature and leisure.

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