Treasure in Miniature: Netsuke Exhibition

8/23/06

Treasure in Miniature: Netsuke Photographic Exhibition

The library proudly presents an exhibition showcasing representative examples from our netsuke sculpture collection using enlarged digital prints.  Also on display are important books on the art form.  The sculptures and books are from the library's Robert and Miriam Kinsey Collection.

The exhibit will be open during library hours through March 23, 2007. For directions and parking information, contact (310) 338-2788. For more information, contact (310) 338-2780.

A special viewing of the sculptures is scheduled September 30, 2006 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a lecture on Japanese art from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.  The sculpture may also be viewed between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Department of Archives & Special Collections.

Robert and Miriam Kinsey, distinguished collectors and scholars of Japanese art, created the world’s largest collection of contemporary netsuke. Netsuke are exquisitely detailed miniature sculptures originally designed as toggles to be worn with the traditional costume of Japanese men. The revival of netsuke carving developed in the twentieth century as a contemporary art form through the dedicated patronage of collectors such as the Kinseys.

Loyola Marymount University is proud to own forty-two superb netsuke donated by the Kinseys from their private collection to the Charles Von der Ahe Library.

In addition to the netsuke, Robert and Miriam Kinsey also donated numerous contemporary Japanese prints, paintings, other sculptures, and over six hundred fifty books on Japanese art and culture. Many of the Kinsey art works are on loaned display in the Administrative Suites of University Hall, Loyola Marymount University.