Week 3- Anya Reames

The luxury of France and the culture of Japan

During the reign of King Louis XIV, France became known internationally as a center for luxury, refinement, and style. Even today, many luxury brands will opt for a French name, even if that isn’t the company’s origin. Consumers often see a French brand as more stylish, finer, and higher quality. This is all due to the mission King Louis XIV undertook to establish France, and his kingship, as the center of luxury. From expanding Versailles, financially backing art institutions, and increasing control of the royals. King Louis XIV was able to push the country towards a golden age of beauty with the help of Cobert, the Minister of Finances

Similar to France, modern countries are attempting to increase their influence in their international image. This can be seen in countries attempting to, and succeeding, in spreading their popular culture. One example would be Japan, a country whose popular culture has been influencing people across the world. In the past Japan, after the war with the US but now it has made itself into a world cultural influence.  It is a culture we have seen making its influence in countries for decades and one can see the result as many foreigners are attempting to move to Japan. From Japanese music, foods, tea ceremony, to their gardens and movies, Japan has made its mark on the world. In Golden Gate park of San Francisco, one can see a traditional Japanese tea Garden, to the black market of Peru were pirated anime is sold, the influence of Japan is strong and has penetrated culture internationally.

(Japanese Tea Garden in  San Francisco)

Question: Had King Louis XIV not worked towards his goal of creating the France we know today, which country would have become the center of fashion, art, and luxury?

Joan N. The Essence of Style: How the French Invented High Fashion, Fine Food, Chic Cafes, Style, Sophistication, and Glamour. New York: Free, 2005. Web. 20 January 2017. 

Usher, Abott Payson. Colbert and Governmental Control of Industry in 17th Century France. 11th ser. 16 (1934): 237-40. The MIT Press , 25 Nov. 2015. Web. 20 January 2017. <https://canvas.ucdavis.edu/courses/72045/files/folder/Readings/Week3?preview=617735>.

http://www.nbcnews.com/id/24546355/ns/business-us_business/t/embracing-japanese-pop-culture/#.WIOQkoWcEdU

http://www.jettingaround.com/2012/08/photo-of-the-week-japanese-tea-garden-in-san-francisco/