Join the Costume Society for an exclusive book launch talk with Dr Arisa Yamaguchi discussing her new book Sartorial Japonisme and the Experience of Kimonos in Britain, 1865-1914.
This exciting book examines experiences through (or with) kimonos in Britain during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods. Bringing new perspectives to challenge the existing model of ‘Japonisme in fashion’ and introducing overlooked contacts between kimonos and people, this book explores not only fine arts and department stores but also a variety of theatres and cheap postcards. Putting a particular focus on the responses and reactions elicited by kimonos in visual, textual and material forms, this book initiates an entirely new discussion on the British adoption of Japanese kimonos beyond the monolithic view of the relationship between the East and West.
Dr Arisa Yamaguchi is an associate professor at the University of Tsukuba, Japan. She obtained a PhD in Literature from the University of Tsukuba and her PhD study was awarded the President Award in 2022. She spent most of her academic life in the UK, taking the Master of Arts in history of design and material culture from The University of Brighton. She recently focuses on the dress history of Victorian/Edwardian Britain, especially in association with non-European (Japanese) culture. This is her first book.
Join us on Thursday 30th November 2023 from 1pm to 2pm online.
Please book your ticket via Eventbrite (the link will be shared soon with members privately) and we can’t wait to see you there. This is a free event for Costume Society members. To become a member please see our dedicated membership pages.
