Everyday Elegance – Modern Western Makeup Sets
The Pola Museum of Art in Hakone is currently hosting a collection exhibition titled "Everyday Elegance - Modern Western Cosmetic Sets." [Top image: "Rose-colored glass cosmetic set," circa 1940. Photo: Ken Kato, Pola Museum of Art]
This exhibition focuses on cosmetic sets used in modern Western society from the late 19th to the early 20th century, showcasing the evolution of their beauty and functionality. These cosmetic sets, consisting of mirrors, brushes, powder boxes, and other items, are not only tools for personal grooming but also characterized by their beautifully crafted designs and meticulous use of materials.
Modern Western cosmetic tools, combining functionality and decorative appeal, were created for practical use, yet they feature intricate details and various ornaments, reflecting the sensibilities of the time that sought to incorporate beauty into everyday life. They strongly reflect the social context and technological innovations of the era, revealing the evolving values and lifestyles surrounding personal grooming.
Left: Pierre-Auguste Renoir, "Girl with a Lace Hat," 1891.
Center: Pierre-Auguste Renoir, *Hair Ornament*, 1888. Right: Fernand Léger, *Woman with a Mirror*, 1920.
Located in the natural surroundings of Hakone, the Pola Museum of Art centers around a collection amassed by Tsuneji Suzuki, the second generation of the Pola founding family, and houses Western modern paintings by artists such as Manet and Renoir.
Through the makeup sets that have been used in everyday life in modern Western society, why not take some time to quietly reflect on the meaning of "dressing up" and the aesthetic sensibilities that permeate daily life?
"Everyday Elegance – Modern Western Makeup Sets"
Exhibition Period: December 13, 2025 (Sat) - May 31, 2026 (Sun) Open every day during the exhibition period.
Venue: Pola Museum of Art, Exhibition Room 4
Event details here: https://magcul.net/315666?lang=en
