Welcome to our Japan! and South West Scotland
exhibition! You may be wondering what connects Japan and
Scotland, but there has been an ongoing exchange of art, industry,
and ideas between Japan and Scotland since the 1850s when Japan
ended its self-imposed isolation. You may also be asking why
Dumfries Museum, with its focus on Scottish, especially local
history, is exhibiting Japanese objects. However, learning
about other cultures can help us to understand more about our own
culture.
Japan remains as fascinating today as it was in 1935 when
Dumfries Museum held a special exhibition of Japanese and Chinese
art to mark its re-opening under the care of Dumfries Town
Council.
Many of the items featured in 1935 were loaned by local
people. This exhibition also borrows from private individuals
as well as featuring highlights from the Museum's own collection,
including art, weaponry and everyday items, most of which date from
the later part of the Edo period (1600-1868) and the Meiji era
(1868-1912).
Thanks
Many people have generously contributed their time and knowledge
to help put this exhibition together and deserve thanks;
including
The Adachi Foundation, Japan
Louise Boyd, University of Glasgow
Broughton House, National Trust for Scotland
Dr Rosina Buckland, National Museums Scotland
The Dick Institute, East Ayrshire Council
Dr Shinya Maezaki, Ritsumeikan University
Museums Galleries Scotland
Thanks are also due to the private collectors who have kindly
agreed to loan Japanese items so that others may enjoy their
beauty.