#Japan #Tokyo #summer exhibition #Ancient Orient Museum #Ancient Glass

Ancient Orient Museum's Summer Special Exhibition

The Ancient Orient Museum located in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, is set to host its summer special exhibition titled "THE ANCIENT GLASS: Three Trails of Ancient Glass" and a children's museum experience, "Enjoying the Ancient Orient!" from July 12 (Saturday) to September 7 (Sunday) in 2025.

Main Exhibition: THE ANCIENT GLASS

During this exhibition, visitors will explore the historical journey of glass, which originated over 4,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia. It will highlight how this fascinating material traveled to various parts of the world, undergoing unique developments along the way. The exhibition spotlights three significant regions: the Ancient Mediterranean World, the Ancient Oriental World, and the East Asian World.

Curated with artifacts from renowned institutions such as MIHO MUSEUM, the Hirayama Ikuo Silk Road Museum, and the University of Tokyo Museum of Science, the exhibition features 187 relics and art pieces, totaling 257 items. These treasures reveal the impressive craftsmanship and innovative techniques of ancient artisans.

Children's Museum: Enjoying the Ancient Orient!

In parallel, the children's museum aims to introduce the allure of the Ancient Orient to younger audiences. It features age-appropriate themes like daily life, writing systems, and deities, designed specifically for elementary and middle school students. The museum provides interactive worksheets to help kids observe exhibit items and includes hands-on areas where they can experience ancient tools and technologies. Special night tours with explanations and workshops tailored for children will also enrich the learning experience, making it an ideal opportunity for summer research projects.

Special Events and Activities

In addition to the main exhibitions, various events including lectures, workshops, and collaborative activities with Toshima City are planned throughout the exhibition period.

Exhibition Details

The two exhibitions will run concurrently, allowing visitors to enjoy all activities with a single museum admission fee.

• - THE ANCIENT GLASS: Three Trails of Ancient Glass

Explore the fascinating developments of ancient glass through its historical significance.

• - Enjoying the Ancient Orient! Children's Museum

Interactive experiences designed for children to learn while having fun.

Opening Hours

• - From July 12 (Saturday) to September 7 (Sunday), 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)

Admission Fees

• - General: ¥1,200
• - High School/College Students: ¥600
• - Middle/Elementary Students: ¥300

Discounts are available for groups and individuals with disabilities.
Supported by Toshima City and the Toshima City Board of Education, with special cooperation from Sunshine City.

Insights from the Experts

Masao Senmoto, Chief Researcher, Ancient Orient Museum shared, "Glass, often taken for granted in our daily lives, was first produced over 4,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia. The advancements in ancient glassblowing techniques remain a mystery even today. This exhibition aims to showcase the extraordinary skills of ancient craftsmen and the profound allure of glass as a medium."
Tae Takami, Educational Officer, Ancient Orient Museum commented on the children's museum, "After last year's success, we are thrilled to present the third edition of our children’s museum. Children will find engaging 'hands-on' activities to explore, including a newly developed educational kit for creating ancient Mesopotamian cities. We encourage families to visit and immerse themselves in the wonders of the Ancient Orient this summer."

Exhibition Highlights

1. Chapter One: The Birth of Dazzling Glass
Explore early glass artifacts created in ancient Mesopotamia.
Example: A blue star-pattern pendant from 16th-13th century BC North Mesopotamia.

2. Chapter Two: Treasures of Opulence
Witness glass representing symbols of status in ancient society.
Example: A beautiful engraved bowl from the Sassanian period in Iran.

3. Chapter Three: The Innovation of Glassblowing
Discover the techniques that led to more efficient mass production of glass.
Example: A blue marble-pattern bottle from the Eastern Mediterranean.

4. Chapter Four: The Radiance of East Asian Glass
Learn how Chinese glass uniquely evolved through the influence of Western techniques.
Example: A square-shaped glass bead from the Warring States period in China.

Attendees can also find a range of original goods inspired by ancient glass, including glass pens and accessories at the museum shop.

Additional Events

Special webinars, workshops, and guided tours will further enhance the visitor experience. Monthly online lectures led by experts will delve into various topics related to ancient glass, and hands-on workshops will allow adult participants to create intricate glass accessories.

The children's museum features panels with character guides for easy understanding and fun interaction with ancient history.

Conclusion

Visitors are encouraged to partake in this unique event, honoring ancient craftsmanship while exploring the rich history of glass and the allure of the Ancient Orient. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy both educational and entertaining activities at the Ancient Orient Museum this summer!