The exhibition at Japan House features over 200 hyper-realistic replica foods from the Iwasaki Group, exploring the history and craft of shokuhin sanpuru. Established to entice customers and assist in menu navigation, this immersive display showcases the artistry involved in food replicas, highlighting Japan’s diverse culinary landscape while offering insights into cultural practices.
This exhibition at Japan House in London showcases the exquisite art of shokuhin sanpuru, the realistic replica foods that entice diners in Japan. Featuring over 200 models from the Iwasaki Group, the show immerses visitors in the fascinating history and craftsmanship behind these eye-catching displays. Originating in 1920s Japan, these models helped manage expectations, avoid food waste, and guide customers in their orders. The exhibit highlights specific techniques of model-making, such as casting in PVC and intricate hand-painting, and includes an array of regional dishes that showcase Japan’s culinary diversity. The exhibition serves not only as a visual feast but also educates visitors on both the aesthetic and practical values of replica food in the dining culture. It concludes with a playful display of nostalgic treats, unfazed by health regulations, emphasising that these mouthwatering sights remain calorie-free.
The exhibition highlights the cultural significance of shokuhin sanpuru, or fake food displays, in Japan. These lifelike models emerged in the 1920s to aid customers unfamiliar with new international cuisines, particularly in department stores. They evolved to visually communicate menu items to diners more effectively while reducing food waste. The Iwasaki Group, a pioneer in this craft, has maintained traditional techniques over the decades, ensuring high-quality and visually striking representations of various dishes.
The exhibition at Japan House is a celebration of Japan’s culinary culture, revealing the artistry behind fake food displays. It serves as a gastronomic journey through remarkable craftsmanship and provides insight into the methods and history that have shaped these enticing representations, illustrating their impact on dining experiences.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com