Ukiyo-e Paintings by the Kaigetsudo School Artists

When appraising the work of Kaigetsudo Ando the American philosopher Ernest Fenollosa said, "The beauty of the brushstrokes and composition is an unprecedented beauty in the world of ukiyo-e." Ando was a prominent painter who specialized in hand-painted works, known as nikuhitsu, that mainly featured beautiful women illustrated in bold brushstrokes and beautiful colors during the early 18th century.

He worked in his studio in Edo (now Tokyo) with five highly-talented pupils to create works systematically, and they became highly popular. Many of his paintings of beauties feature voluptuous high-ranking courtesans, who wear the gorgeous garments that denote the advanced aesthetic sense of the Edo period.

The unique style of the Kaigetsudo was not limited to time, but continued to exert an influence on later artists. His many followers brought forth the name "the Kaigetsudo school".

This thematic exhibition features a total of 17 works of ukiyo-e painting by the Kaigetsudo school. We hope to you enjoy these highly refined works of art.