HDI Exhibition Pick – January 2015

Kimono, A Modern History
September 27, 2014–January 19, 2015, The Metropolitan Museum of New York

It is a rainy and grey day in New York and once again we are getting lost in the amazing world of The Metropolitan Museum of New York. The “Kimono, A Modern History” exhibition is a visual treat and the Met assembled fascinating and glorious examples. The range of imagery of the kimonos is truly amazing and it highlights graphic design and composition in a very artistic way. One of our favorite examples was a gift from Louisine Havemeyer, it is made from luxurious white silk satin and covered with “Mon” circular embroidered symbols, an absolutely exquisite Meiji garment.

It is easy to see why “Japonisme” was the rage of Europe and America in the last quarter of the 19th century and inspired such wonderful silver, pottery and furniture of the era. The imagery is so fresh and full of life and the wonders of nature. The installation was stunning. Unfortunately the show closes on January 19th. If you are in New York and have the opportunity to see this gem, don’t miss it.