FRANKFURT .- The Museum Angewandte Kunst explores a Japanese concept of timeless beauty in its new exhibition, Shibui. An Aesthetic Beyond Cultural Boundaries, part of the meet asian art series. Although deeply rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics, shibui describes qualities that can also be found in everyday objects and works of art from other cultures. By bringing East Asian and European objects into dialogue, the exhibition shows how this aesthetic transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. This exhibition presents a selection from the extensive Asian collection of the Museum Angewandte Kunst. The objects originate from Japan, China, Korea, and Europe and span approximately two millennia up to the present day.

What is shibui?

The term shibui can be traced back in the history of Japan to the Muromachi period (1336–1573). Originally, it referred to the bitter, astringent taste of an unripe persimmon. Over the centuries, shibui has evolved from a purely taste-related description into one of the highest ideals of aesthetics.

Shibui embodies a beauty that does not impose itself, but reveals itself gradually. It is a beauty defined by depth, simplicity, and restraint. In everyday objects and works of art, this is expressed through carefully considered forms, honest materials and a sense of depth. Colours are muted, forms are clean, and surfaces are often irregular. Nothing is left to chance, and nothing is unnecessary. Shibui is not about giving things up, but about focusing on form, material, and function. It is about balance, respect for the material, and an acceptance of ageing and signs of use.

Shibui is more than an aesthetic style. It is an attitude to life. The philosophy behind it is rooted in awareness, simplicity, and an appreciation of materials and craftsmanship. In today's fast-paced world of overconsumption, shibui offers a conscious alternative. It encourages people to make more thoughtful choices, use things for longer, and recognise beauty beyond passing trends.

What is 亞歐堂 meet asian art?

With meet asian art, the Museum Angewandte Kunst has, since 2016, provided a permanent place for Asian art to be explored, viewed, discussed and understood. It features rotating exhibits from the museum's unique collections of Asian art. meet asian art is more than just an exhibition space: as a venue for events and presentations, it continually offers new insights into Asia's contribution to world art.

Curator: Dr Anett Göthe