Discovering Asian Art: Tradition, Technique, and Impact

For centuries, Asian art has held a lasting role in the global art world by blending history, tradition, and cultural identity. While its influence is enduring, many of these treasures have remained overlooked, waiting to be rediscovered.

At Everything But The House, we strive to share and bring the uncommon to life – which is why we are honored to serve as the official sponsor of the upcoming Rediscovered Treasures exhibit at the Cincinnati Art Museum. This exhibition highlights Asian artwork that the museum has redocumented and formally accessioned.

In this blog, we’ll explore the traditions, techniques, and cultural impact of Asian art.

Classifying Asian Art

Asia’s diverse heritage has made for an extraordinary spectrum of art. Home to countless religions, cultures, and histories, the region has cultivated a wealth of traditions – each encompassing a vast range of artistic expressions.

East Asian artwork often emphasizes brushwork in painting and calligraphy, reflecting philosophical themes and an appreciation for nature. Sculptures in this region “vary” as Chinese pieces often feature Buddhist cosmology, while Japanese and Korean ceramics focus on functional bowls and vases.

As the largest nation in South Asia, India has a significant influence on the art in this region, often drawing inspiration from Hindu and Buddhist religions. Many sculptures include motifs of women, foliage, and embracing couples – reflecting both the “sacred and the secular themes” within South Asian art.

In Central Asia, art is often a reflection of the rich cultural exchanges, blending Persian and Islamic influences. Mosque architecture, intricate tilework, and sculptures can be characterized by vibrant colors, geometric patterns, and metalwork – the result of combining influences with the region’s own traditions.

Traditional Techniques

With the variety of art forms across the continent, certain techniques such as painting, metalwork, and calligraphy stand out for their lasting influence.

Despite the use of the same brushes and ink, calligraphy once held a status that predated painting in Chinese art. The characters used in calligraphy were believed to hold the “power of words”, which delayed the rise of painting until the Song dynasty. During this period, calligraphy, painting, and poetry were often combined into an art form aimed at capturing the entire subject – including its spirit, energy, and emotions.

The use of metals in sculptures throughout Asia – from bronze to iron – played a significant role in their craftsmanship. Statues of Buddha were especially widespread, each reflecting regional. styles and techniques.
One of the most common methods of creating statues was direct casting, which not only demonstrated the technical skills of the artists but also offered insight into the available materials of the time.

Together, these traditional methods showcase the skill, symbolism, and cultural values woven into Asian art.

A Lasting Influence

The influence of Asian art has reached far beyond its origins. From flawless brushwork and geometric tilework, these traditional methods showcase the skill, symbolism, and cultural values that have been a muse for art across the world.

Today, these treasures continue to be appreciated for the history and stories they hold – the “Rediscovered Treasures” exhibit at the Cincinnati Art Museum is part of that journey.