#Japan #Paris #Asian Art #Japan Sui Collection #Lineage of Gold

Japan SUI Collection Paris: Lineage of Gold Lineage of Silver

From October 22 to 23, 2026, the Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan proudly hosted the exclusive art exhibition titled Lineage of Gold Lineage of Silver at the historic Palais de Chaillot in Paris. This esteemed event brought together over 300 guests from diverse sectors including luxury, business, politics, culture, and creative industries, along with distinguished collectors from across Europe.

Celebrating Japanese Craftsmanship

Curated by the well-respected cultural producer and author, Mari Hashimoto, the exhibition focused on the intricate and traditional art forms of Japan, with a contemporary lens emphasizing the significance of gold and silver. These noble metals were not just materials but the backbone of the exhibition, displaying Japan’s rich artistic history.

The exhibition featured approximately 60 art pieces ranging from exquisite lacquerware and ceramics to textiles and swords. Curiosity was particularly piqued by lesser-known techniques such as kirikane, a decorative approach used in Buddhist statues and paintings involving gold and silver leaf, and kinkarakami, a golden embossed technique. Guests particularly admired the Kumihimo-Nara-gumi cords by Dōmyō, showcasing multiple techniques including twisting, braiding, weaving, and various forms of hidden stitching. The embroidered obi belts by Kondaya Genbei were also notable, representing the ancient traditions of body restraint and embodying the Shinto concept of Yorishiro, deemed to house divine presence.

One of the standout pieces was Remnant Stone by Terumasa Ikeda. This ethereal work featured elegant seashell inlays alongside delicately cut laser numbers and lines on ultra-thin lacquer surfaces, merging traditional Japanese techniques with futuristic digital motifs.

Culinary Delights

In conjunction with these artistic displays, attendees were treated to an exquisite culinary experience featuring traditional Japanese delicacies. Influential French modern chef Yannick Alléno and innovative sushi master Yasunari Okazaki from the celebrated restaurant L'Abysse Paris prepared delicacies like kombu-cured yellowtail sashimi and hosomaki sushi rolls finished with caviar, elevating the cultural experience beyond mere visuals.

An installation by famed lighting designers Akari-Lisa Ishii and Motoko Ishii dramatically transformed the gallery space, named La Cathédrale, using artistic lighting that highlighted the artworks' intricate details through shadows and ambiance.

Messages of Tradition and Harmony

During the opening ceremony, Masaya Kitao, counselor of the Cabinet Secretariat, delivered pressing remarks emphasizing that the JAPAN SUI COLLECTION is much more than an exhibition; it’s a journey unveiling the hidden beauty and elegance across Japan, aiming to forge new values together with the audience. He articulated that the history of a Japanese handcrafted item begins anew with each new owner, who contributes to its narrative and value. He stressed the importance of preserving and transmitting the spirit and mastery of these traditions to allow them to resonate with other cultures while finding new forms of expression.

Cultural Performances

Guests were enthralled by a captivating performance from renowned Japanese dancer Min Tanaka, known for his unique choreographic proposals that explore body movement through improvisation, leaving a lasting impression of cultural depth and exploration.

The SUI Collection represents an initiative by the Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan, aimed at promoting Japan's exceptional artistic mastery and distinctive creations from across the nation. Following the success in Paris, the JAPAN SUI COLLECTION will also be featured in Kyoto** on November 7-8, 2026, at the Kyoto State Guest House, providing an exclusive opportunity to further appreciate Japan's artistic heritage.

For more details on the event and future exhibitions, please visit JAPAN SUI COLLECTION.