Abstract
This paper investigates the reasons for introducing the drawing of casted plaster objects into modern Japanese innovative art education and its impact on education. Based on existing documents and previous research, this study analyzed changes in educational purpose, teaching method, and style of drawing, focusing on the education that took place at the College of Engineering Art School and Tokyo School of Art in the Meiji era. It was found that plaster drawing was introduced into Japanese art education in order to understand western culture. It was also found that the teaching curriculum changed from copying casting sketches to sketching actual plaster objects when the main art education institute changed from the College of Engineering Art School to Tokyo School of Art. In addition, although the style of drawing in both schools clearly emphasized contour lines and contrast of tone, a change toward less consciousness of composition was seen.
