Heian can translate to "peace and tranquility". Most significantly, an imperial capital was established during this time. Heian-kyo (later Kyoto), was the epicenter of Japanese art and culture for nearly four centuries. Even today, Kyoto is seen as a city of history and the arts.
The Heian period is remembered most prominently for being an age of art, literature and culture. A strong sense of native aesthetics was cultivated, leading to a diverse, yet distinctly Japanese style.
The Heian period is remembered most prominently for being an age of art, literature and culture. A strong sense of native aesthetics was cultivated, leading to a diverse, yet distinctly Japanese style.
Types of Heian Art
WritingThe Japanese had been long exposed to writing by this point. There have been some very rare finds that date back to the Yayoi period. However, during the Heian period, the art of writing suddenly flowered - calligraphy.
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LiteratureMurasaki Shikibu and other court ladies gave a surviving personal account of the Heian period through their writings. The world's first novel was attributed to Shikibu.
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ReligionA strong shift towards Buddhist iconography was seen in this period. Although initially met with much skepticism by the court, Buddhism was embraced after monk Kukai (above) edited it to suit Japanese culture at the time.
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Changes in painting style may be attributed to the rise in sophisticated calligraphy. Poetry was used as a primary inspiration for paintings, and this style set the stage for many centuries of Japanese painting.
As the Heian period started, Heian-kyo was the seat of the imperial government. However, as time went on, samurai organized and took over most governing functions. Heian-kyo continued to be the home of the Emperor, and a cultural haven. But as the aristocrats and artists slowly lost their wealth and power, their depression could be seen in their works.