ABSTRACT
The most interesting or instructive Japanese arts is the sculpture in wood and ivory. The sculpture of Japan undoubtedly had its origin in the service of the Buddhist religion. This chapter talks about metal work and painting in Japan. In metal work the Japanese have certainly cultivated art to a high degree. In the ninth century painting, as well as the arts of architecture and carving, flourished exceedingly. Painting has, in Japan, long been greatly cultivated, and in some respects highly developed. China and the Buddhist religion have profoundly influenced painting as the other arts of Japan. Indeed, the early painters of Japan devoted themselves almost entirely too religious subjects. The drain of Japan's art treasures went on unchecked year after year, and it is probable that the private and public collections of Europe and America contain more Japanese art treasures than are now to be found in Japan itself.
