During the postwar Allied Occupation, Japanese exports had to be labeled “Made in Occupied Japan” from when civilian trade resumed in 1947 until 1952. In that period, a variety of products were exported, primarily to the United States, including ceramics, lacquerware, metalwork, toys and cameras, which in recent years have become popular collectors’ items.
This exhibition shows a variety of everyday items donated by collectors. This is the fourth time for us to exhibit a collection of artifacts made in occupied Japan. Enjoy the charming and sometimes kitschy retro everyday items from around 75 years ago, from cups, saucers, plates, and other tableware to lacquerware featuring Japanese patterns, metal ashtrays, and celluloid toys.