Head
(c. 1930)
Medium
porcelain, pigment
Measurements
16.2 × 8.5 × 10.7 cm
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Winsome Richards, 2019
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
These powder compacts and accessories illustrate Japan’s newly developing ideals of beauty and femininity during the modernist period. During this time many Japanese women gained access to employment and education, gaining greater financial independence that allowed them to choose how they presented their physical appearance.Through shrewd marketing campaigns and new approaches to product branding and promotion, companies such as Shiroi Honpō, Papilio and Shiseido played a key role in the development of the moga (modern girl) archetype – their target consumer. The lively designs by leading artists and designers combine Art Deco geometry with the flowing curves of Art Nouveau.