Imagine Japan

«Giving free rein to the imagination» are the closing words of the preface to Le Japon illustré, written by Neuchâtel diplomat Aimé Humbert, a signatory to the first Treaty of Amity and Commerce between Switzerland and Japan.

Published in 1870, the travel journal features 476 pictures drawn from the many images that Humbert had collected during his Japanese mission.

As well as its lavish illustrations, the book is an essential reference work on the transition of Japan from the Edo period to the Meiji era, and a major milestone in the West’s understanding and perceptions of Japan.

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty, the Imagine Japan exhibition explores these images and the enduring fascination with the Land of the Rising Sun. Whether it is anime or manga, garden or urban aesthetics, martial arts, religious practices, the art of tattooing or popular

entertainment in general, Japan seems to serve as a repository of practices and representations that continue to nourish and stimulate both the imaginary and real experience of many Swiss.