S C U L P T U R E O F J A P A N
The early Japanese sculpture called Haniwa, from the 3rd-6th century, were clay figures that were used as grave offerings to protect the deceased in their afterlife. Haniwa sculptures took on many forms such as birds, horses, fans, fish, houses, weapons, shields, sunshades, and human figures.
Later Japanese sculpture, like most of the art forms in Japan, derive their influence from Tang Dynasty China. In fact, almost all of Japanese culture echoes these Chinese styles, not only in sculpture and painting, but in architecture, city planning, costume, etc. Their love for these Chinese forms has kept the Tang Dynasty traditions alive in Japan, even though in China these traditions have completely evolved and changed.
