This week, the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened a new exhibition in its Japanese wing, which focuses on the decorative arts of Kyoto. Titled "Kyoto: Capital of Artistic Imagination," the show is a rich exploration into a collective oeuvre that has spanned hundreds of years. And given that it will run through the summer of 2020, there's no reason not to make the educational jaunt uptown.

Included in the exhibition are myriad ceramics, as well as lacquered works, paper screens, and more. Monika Bincsik, the Diane and Arthur Abbey associate curator for Japanese decorative arts, emphasizes that a rare samurai battle surcoat from the Momoyama period (1573–1615), is a hidden gem of particular note thanks to the fact that only three such pieces are known to exist. The surcoat, which is made out of imported fabrics, also testifies to the fact that Japan was engaging with global trade at the time.

A set of five camellia-shaped glazed ceramic vessels from the Edo period (1615–1868) is a particularly sweet example of Kyoto's rich decorative arts history. They were made by Ogata Kenzan. Photo: Lee Oi-Cheong / Courtesy of Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art

But garments and decorative objects aside, there's more that might be of interest to a design professional. Bincsik cites the museum's newly constructed tearoom as having particular potential relevancy, as it "represents not only Japanese architecture, but also Japanese carpentry at its best." Bincsik adds that "it gives an idea of how to use a small, intimate space to share and enjoy art with friends, while enjoying a cup of delicious tea." A worthy lesson, it would seem, for many an interior designer.

From the use of natural materials to the deep level of craftsmanship that imbues each and every piece, the exhibition has many more pearls of wisdom to share. "[It] demonstrates both the subtle, austere wabi-sabi aspect and the grand, powerful aesthetic sensibilities of Japanese art," Bincsik says of the show at large. "The latter is best captured in the art of folding screens decorated with gold and vivid colors, [which] were used as space dividers in large rooms."

A lacquered-wood-with-gold clothing tray, created during the Momoyama period (1573–1615). Photo: Lee Oi-Cheong / Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art

One particularly gold and glowing pair of screens, depicting major rebellions that rocked the capital city hundreds of years ago, comes to mind. However, there are also contemporary pieces, such as one beautiful yet subtle stoneware vase, that stand out. "Art production and architectural and garden design are still very active in Kyoto," Bincsik stresses. "[The city's] long history and traditions were carried on to the 21st century. Some contemporary artists create fresh, new designs in line with international trends, while other artists follow the more traditional aesthetic sensibilities and techniques."

And despite the wide expanse of time that this exhibition covers, Bincsik says that it's no substitute for seeing such works in their native city. (As an expert in the field who has spent significant time in Japan, she's one to know.) Nevertheless, for those who can't travel halfway around the world to immerse themselves in another visual culture, the Met's new show will more than do.