Skills of the masters

Rationality and practicality were esteemed qualities in Edo Period Japan, and so emphasis was placed on fields of study beneficial to society. In contrast, people at this time enjoyed games and unusual things, resulting int the high regard in which Wabi (subtlety), Sabi (elegant simplicity) were held and the emergence of such particularly Japanese aesthetic sensibilities as Iki (stylish) and Inase (dashing). These helped cultivate Japan's unique artisanship culture as craftsmen in a diversity of fields, from artware and craftware to livingware and toys, evolved exquisite skills.