The Splendour of Modernitypresents a comprehensive overview of Japanese art from 1865 to 1915, encompassing painting, calligraphy, sculpture, prints, ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, basketry, metalwork and cloisonn. Rosina Buckland challenges the common misconception that in this era foreign influence diluted the supposed authenticity of Japanese art. Instead, she highlights the development of distinctively Japanese artistic practices that incorporated new stimuli from overseas. She also dispels assumptions of artistic decline in the early Meiji era by examining the period from 1865 to 1885.Meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated, this captivating exploration showcases the resilience, innovation and enduring beauty of Japanese art during a transformative period one marked by Japans global engagement and artistic evolution.