Chasing is a metalworking technique in which a malleable metal is shaped by hammering to create low-relief decoration. This exhibition traces the work of metal-chaser and Japanese Living National Treasure Mitsuo Masuda with 60 pieces, including some from Masuda's master, the ceramist Kenkichi Tomimoto.
Influenced by his master's aesthetic, Masuda often portrays the vitality of flowers, plants and animals as well as motifs of changing seasons. Though he was named a Living National Treasure primarily for his metal-chasing work, he is also acclaimed for gilding and inlaying; till June 26. An accompanying exhibition will also be held at Aizu Museum till June 18.
Crafts Gallery, The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, (03) 5777-8600; 1-1 Kitanomaru-koen. Chiyoda-ku; 8 min. walk from Exit B1, Takebashi Station, Tozai Line; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; ¥200; closed Mon. www.monat.go.jp. Aizu Museum, Waseda University, (03) 5286-3835; 1-6-1 West Waseda, Shinjuku-ku; 20 min. walk from Takadanobaba Station, JR Yamanote Line; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; admission free; closed Sun. www.waseda.jp/aizu.
