Definition and Classification of National Treasures
– National Treasures are the most precious Tangible Cultural Properties in Japan
– Designated by the Agency for Cultural Affairs
– Classified as buildings and structures or as fine arts and crafts
– Must show outstanding workmanship or high value for world cultural history
– Span the period of ancient to early modern Japan
Types and Distribution of National Treasures
– Approximately 20% are structures such as castles, temples, and shrines
– The other 80% are paintings, scrolls, sculptures, crafts, swords, textiles, etc.
– Include pieces from the Jōmon period to the Meiji period
– Modern National Treasures have been designated post-Meiji Restoration
– Examples include the Akasaka Palace, Tomioka Silk Mill, and Kaichi School
– Kansai region has the most National Treasures, with Kyoto alone having one in five
– Fine arts and crafts properties are owned privately or in museums
– Religious items are often housed in temples, shrines, or adjacent museums
– National museums in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara also house National Treasures
– Public prefectural and city museums, as well as private museums, also hold National Treasures
Protection and Preservation of National Treasures
– Japan has comprehensive legislation for protecting and preserving cultural patrimony
– Methods of protection include restrictions on alterations, transfer, and export
– Financial support is provided through grants and tax reduction
– The Agency for Cultural Affairs offers advice on restoration and administration
– Laws protect the built environment and necessary restoration techniques
History of National Treasures Preservation in Japan
– Feudal Japan ended with the Meiji Restoration, leading to destruction of Buddhist buildings and artwork
– In 1871, the government confiscated temple lands and expropriated properties belonging to feudal lords
– Rise of industrialization and westernization impacted cultural heritage
– In 1897, the Ancient Temples and Shrines Preservation Law was enacted, providing government funding for preservation
– A second law in 1897 designated works of art in temples and shrines as National Treasures
– Modernization in the early 20th century threatened historic and natural monuments
– Imperial Ancient Sites Survey Society and Society for the Investigation and Preservation of Historic Sites and Aged Trees advocated for conservation
– Resolution in the House of Peers achieved for conservation measures
– Efforts led to the 1919 Historical Sites, Places of Scenic Beauty, and Natural Monuments Preservation Law
– Law aimed at protecting and cataloguing properties
Establishment, Significance, and Designation of National Treasures
– The National Treasure System was established in 1897
– Aimed to preserve and protect Japan’s cultural properties of exceptional value
– Initially focused on tangible cultural properties such as buildings, sculptures, and paintings
– Criteria for designation as a National Treasure were set
– National Treasures were categorized into buildings, crafts, fine arts, and archaeological artifacts
– National Treasures represent the highest level of cultural significance in Japan
– They provide insights into Japan’s history, art, and craftsmanship
– National Treasures contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage
– They serve as symbols of national pride and identity
– National Treasures attract domestic and international visitors, promoting tourism
– Property owners or relevant organizations submit applications for designation
– The Agency for Cultural Affairs evaluates the applications
– Criteria for designation include exceptional artistic or historical value
– Designated properties undergo thorough examination and documentation
– Designation as a National Treasure is announced publicly
– National Treasures are protected by the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties
– Preservation and restoration efforts are carried out by specialized conservation teams
– Conservation methods and materials adhere to international standards
– Regular inspections and maintenance ensure the longevity of National Treasures
– Public access to National Treasures is carefully managed to prevent damage or deterioration Source URL:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Treasure_(Japan)
