This lecture-only course will examine cultural highpoints in the arts of Japan from the fourteenth to the nineteenth centuries. Artefacts in all media – painting, ceramics, lacquer and textiles – will be examined in the context of the influence of China on Japan, the creation of the Shogun Court, the rise of the merchant classes and the establishment of the pleasure districts in burgeoning Tokyo. Particular attention will be paid to lacquer ware created for the domestic and European market, the arts associated with the tea ceremony and traditional Japanese theatre. Themes of Japonisme will be explored, particularly in nineteenth century Ireland as Japan emerged after 250 years of self-imposed isolation from the outside world.

Lecturer

Ruth Starr

How to apply

You may register and pay by credit/laser card online at http://www.histories-humanities.tcd.ie/extramural after 6 August 2013 or you can download an application form and send it with a cheque/draft/postal money order made payable to Trinity College no. 1 account to: Patricia Stapleton, Extramural Administrator, School of Histories and Humanities, room 3141, Arts Building, Trinity College, Dublin 2.

Applications may be made in person after Tuesday, 6 August 2013, in room 3141, Arts Building, Trinity College, Dublin 2 between 2.30 p.m. and 4.30 p.m. or by appointment (phone 01 896 8589).

Fee

€75 for the course. A concession rate of €45 is available to second and third level students and people whose primary source of income is social welfare, health board or a government-sponsored employment scheme.

Time and place

Wednesdays, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m., in the Emmet Theatre, Arts Building, Trinity College, Dublin 2. This may be subject to change. Please check our website: http://www.histories-humanities.tcd.ie/extramural after 6 August 2013 for update or text ‘INFO’ to 087 2572015.

Duration

The course comprises of one lecture per week over one twelve-week term commencing Wednesday, 25 September 2013. There is a one week break (4-8 November 2013) when no lecture will take place.