Japan House London presents the “Looks Delicious!” exhibition, highlighting the traditional craft of food replicas (sampuru), featuring 47 new pieces from Iwasaki representing each prefecture. Visitors can learn about the history, techniques, and even create their own bento boxes with replicas.
Japan is renowned for its meticulous food replicas known as sampuru, which are hyper-realistic, 3D representations of dishes often displayed outside eateries. Currently, these intricate creations are showcased in London at the “Looks Delicious!” exhibition at Japan House London. Originating in the 20th century to familiarise locals with novel cuisine, such as yōshoku (Western food), this exhibition features 47 new replicas from food manufacturer Iwasaki, representing each of Japan’s prefectures. Visitors can explore the rich history behind this unique craft, learn the production techniques, and even participate in creating their own bento box using replicas.
The tradition of creating food replicas, or sampuru, began in Japan during the 20th century, primarily to help people acclimatise to new culinary experiences, including those influenced by Western cuisine. These detailed models serve as effective visual aids for diners, making it easier to choose meals. The art has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, showcasing Japan’s culinary diversity and precision craftsmanship. The Looks Delicious! exhibition in London presents an opportunity to delve deeper into this culture and the artistry behind food replication.
The Looks Delicious! exhibition at Japan House London brings Japan’s rich food replica culture to a wider audience. It highlights the history and craftsmanship involved in creating sampuru, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistic representation of Japan’s diverse cuisine. This exhibition not only preserves but also celebrates the tradition and invites engagement with the art of food presentation.
Original Source: londontheinside.com