Art Deco Elegance at Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum
- M.R. Lucas
- Dec 23, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 12
Art Deco, the decorative style that originated in France before World War I and thrived in the United States during the 1930s—especially in Manhattan—is prominently showcased at the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, which the government designates as an Important Cultural Property. Once the residence of Prince Asaka, a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and son-in-law of Emperor Meiji, this architectural masterpiece is itself a work of art, reflected in its official status as an Important Cultural Property. It now hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.
Passing through the stone entrance gate flanked by shishi statues—lion guardians associated with Japanese Buddhism and Shinto—you soon are greeted by glass angels created by René Lalique, a renowned Art Nouveau designer. Lalique’s influence is also evident in the museum’s selection of chandeliers, which showcase the era's elegance and craftsmanship. From here, the journey begins as you explore luxurious rooms designed by Henri Rapin, a French interior decorator and painter. Every detail, from carefully carved ceiling panels to murals evoking antiquity and marble accents throughout, reflects a meticulous artistry rarely seen in modern design.
After spending two years in Paris with Princess Nobuko, the eighth daughter of Emperor Meiji, Prince Asaka became captivated by the Art Deco style he encountered in Europe. When he returned to Japan, he commissioned his new residence to reflect this aesthetic, resulting in the construction of the mansion, completed in 1933. Every element, from the lighting fixtures to the drapery, creates an ethereal atmosphere.
Beyond the mansion's elegant interior, its well-preserved Japanese and European gardens also invite exploration, offering a green oasis in the heart of the city. Here, Japanese tradition blends with European sophistication, offering a striking yet welcoming contrast to Tokyo’s ultramodern sprawl.
This often-overlooked destination is a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand the cultural and artistic currents that shaped Japan’s transformation leading up to World War II. It’s a true feast for the senses and an ideal way to spend an afternoon.
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