20/04/2023
⛵ This model of a Japanese festival float is an impressive one metre tall, but its full-sized counterpart could be up to ten sizes larger!
In summer, these giant floats would parade down the streets of Japan, where for centuries people have celebrated spectacular local festivals with music and dance.
This beautifully crafted model takes the form of a ‘gozabune’ – the state barge used by the sh**un. Shoguns were hereditary military leaders from the Tokugawa house. Try to spot their triple-hollyhock crest on the boat’s raised flags.
You can see this elaborate float on display for the first time in our newest free display, alongside other objects exploring the craftmanship and customs of Japanese summer festivals.
🏛 The Asahi Shimbun Displays ‘Japan’s Festival Floats’ is on display in Room 3 of the Museum until 2 July. Find out more and plan your visit here: http://ow.ly/30MZ50NMKzI
Supported by The Asahi Shimbun
🖼 If this float gets you in the festival spirit then visit the Japanese galleries to see a selection of 60 artworks inspired by summer celebrations. ‘Japan’s Summer Festivals’ will be on display in Rooms 92–94 until November 2023.
🔎 Model of a festival boat on wheeled carriage. Wood, metal and fabric, from Japan, around 1905. Read more: http://ow.ly/O79V50NGVF7
