The Realities of Rulers

Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu are representative warlords in Japanese history from the end of the medieval to the beginning of the early modern period. Active in the tumultuous Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1603), they are recognized as figures that pacified the wars of that time with their military powers, paving the way for unifying the country. Their personalities are known in Japan today by representations of them often featured in plays and TV dramas.

Luis Frois, a Portuguese missionary who met Oda Nobunaga when he traveled to Japan, mentions Nobunaga's high-pitched voice in his records. Nobunaga is generally known by his lively character, but at the same time he was also cold-hearted when he prosecuted his retainers' failures and massacred those who were against him. Toyotomi Hideyoshi was the ruler of the country as regent until after he retired. His happy relationship with his wife Kita no Mandokoro is remarked upon by one of the nobles, who was surprised that the husband and wife often spoke to each other familiarly even in front of others. Tokugawa Ieyasu is thought to have been diligent and patient, but actually he was very short-tempered. Once in a fury, he was difficult to calm down.

These realities of the rulers can be seen through their official and private letters, as well as poems that they wrote. Through historical documents we can also learn their political philosophies about policies, strategies, and rule. This exhibition aims to reveal the warlords' personalities, beginning with their portraits, and adding their calligraphic works, historical documents, and related decorative art objects. The dynamic handwriting of Nobunaga seems to reflect his character, while Hideyoshi's writings have unexpected aspects suggesting his fastidiousness. We hope visitors enjoy discovering the rulers through representations different from usual images.