The Language of Things: How Objects Speak of Human Identity

Objects are a central part of daily life. What we use and how we use it shape our routines, beliefs, and shared values. In Japan, handcrafted items are created with care and purpose, reflecting respect for materials and an appreciation for crafstmanship. By looking closely at these objects, we can reflect how traditions and identity are preserved making material culture personal and collective.

interior of a japanese ryokan

The relationship between humans and objects is a fundamental aspect of human existence. From the moment of birth, we engage with the objects that surround us, shaping our perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors. Across the globe, diverse cultures exhibit unique ways of interacting with objects, reflecting their values, traditions, and historical contexts.

Material culture encompasses the physical objects and artifacts produced, used, and exchanged within a society. Looking deeper into these objects offers valuable insight into how communities function, communicate, and express their values. Its significance differs across cultures but often plays a key role in shaping collective identity, preserving traditions, and conveying beliefs.

Japanese culture emphasises minimalism and simplicity, deeply rooted in traditional philosophies like Zen Buddhism. The Japanese aesthetic values the beauty of simplicity, natural materials, and the appreciation of imperfections. Objects such as tea bowls, bonsai trees, and traditional wooden furniture exemplify this profound connection between Japanese culture and its material artefacts. These objects hold great significance within Japanese ceremonies and rituals, representing an approach to life that cherishes simplicity and harmony.

In Ikebana, the vase as an object is part of the harmony

Jun'ichiro Tanizaki's "In Praise of Shadows" beautifully delves into the concept of minimalism and simplicity in Japanese culture. The book explores how the appreciation of shadows, darkness, and imperfections is deeply embedded in traditional Japanese aesthetics, particularly in their architecture and interior design. Tanizaki celebrates the muted and subdued qualities of Japanese culture, which prioritize the subtle beauty of objects and spaces over overt opulence.

In Japanese aesthetics, craftsmanship holds paramount significance, embodying the essence of meticulous attention to detail and dedication to excellence. The concept of "shokunin" (craftsman) carries great reverence in Japanese culture, emphasizing the artisan's commitment to honing their skills over years of training and practice. Japanese artisans approach their work as a form of spiritual expression. This devotion to craftsmanship not only produces objects of exceptional beauty and quality but also instills a sense of mindfulness and harmony between the creator, the material, and the eventual user. The deep respect for craftsmanship in Japanese aesthetics reflects the belief that every object has a soul and embodies the essence of the craftsperson's spirit, making each creation a work of art imbued with a profound sense of cultural heritage and artistic legacy.

The relationships between humans and objects in different cultures offer a rich tapestry for understanding human behavior and society. Whether through consumerism, minimalism, spirituality, or craftsmanship, material culture profoundly influences the way we perceive ourselves, others, and the world around us. Studying these diverse relationships can lead to a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity and a more profound understanding of our shared humanity.