Japan in British Palaces

This section of the exhibition explores how Japanese works of art were displayed by royal collectors between 1680 and 1820. As the British had no direct contact with Japan at this time, the country was considered mysterious and exotic.

Members of the British royal family displayed precious Japanese imports according to the latest taste – in massed displays, or mixed with Chinese and imitation pieces.

Prized Japanese porcelain and lacquer was also mounted or cut up for re-use, creating fashionable interiors at Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, Carlton House and Windsor Castle.