Thematic Exhibition "Red Gold"/"Black Gold": The Beauty and Utility of Copper and Iron

Viewing the collection of the Tokugawa Art Museum from the vantage point of metallic materials such as copper, known as akagane/"red gold," and iron, or kurogane/"black gold," brings into focus the ingenuity and advancements through a group of works that combine practicality and decorative beauty. People understood the distinct characteristics of each metal and used a variety of metal processing technologies, such as carving, casting, and forging, to produce various crafts from them.
Taking as its theme the beauty and functionality of copper and iron, this exhibition presents a range of items, from arms and armor—including sword accessories—which amply demonstrate the particular demands of warrior taste, to tea utensils, that have been treasured for their role in the cultural and performing arts.