NARA -- Almost every year since 1946, the treasures of the Shosoin, storehouse of Nara's famed Todaiji Temple, have been put on display for all to see. These treasures have survived from the eighth century, preserved and protected by both Imperial favor and the unusual structure of the Shosoin, which stands on stilts, so sparing its contents from too much dampness.
Some of the 76 articles in this year's exhibition -- the 53rd -- at the Nara National Museum highlight distinctive aspects of the Japanese aesthetic. Others feature motifs and techniques that found their way to Japan from Central Asia via the Silk Road. In this, they document the spread of cultural influences eastward, the particular interest of the collection.
Twenty-two of the artifacts have never before been publicly displayed. Highlights include a document from 757 placing an order for 2,016 ryoof gold dust (about 30 kg) to be used in the gilding of the statue of the Great Buddha at Todaiji; an intricately woven eighth-century pair of socks with ancient Chinese motifs; and a sandalwood armrest used by Emperor Shomu (701-756) and ingeniously inlaid with deer horn.