Japanese Meiji bronze sculpture of an elephant crying out in rage as he is under attack from two tigers, one clawing up his back, the other being trampled underfoot, its tusks of ivory.

In the 50 years leading up to the dawn of the 20th century, Japan transformed itself from an isolated feudal nation to a world power. The traditional arts seemed doomed to extinction as the country raced to modernize its industries. However, after the young Emperor Meiji assumed the throne in 1868 and prohibited sword-wearing and disestablished Buddhism swordsmiths, sword decorators and bronze-casters, Japan's new leaders realised that the historic skills of the metalworker, lacquerer, enameller and ceramic artist could play a vital part in the struggle to compete in international markets and to demonstrate the brilliance of Japanese craftsmanship. Japan opened its treasures to the world. Before long, visitors to international exhibitions in Europe and America were confronted with astonishing displays of Japanese artistic creativity and technical virtuosity. They were dazzled, amazed and awed at the sight of ceramics, textiles, and sculpture of such unsurpassed artistry, astonishing intricacy, and a degree of technical perfection never even conceived of in the West. The masterpieces of Meiji art and later on Taisho and Showa art, in a unique style blending the best of traditional design with prevailing international taste, are unrivalled in the quality of their craftsmanship and were avidly sought by Western collectors.  They are still appreciated by connoisseurs.