Bears and People: Analyzing Bear-themed Works in the Tokyo National Museum Collection
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Kintaro Riding a Bear with Axe on his Shoulder, By Torii Kiyonaga, Edo period, 18th century
Japanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Thematic Exhibition Room
April 22, 2014 (Tue) - June 1, 2014 (Sun)Bears have long inhabited Japan and had a connection with people as a subject of hunting. This can be confirmed from the designs of earthenware and accessories created by people who lived in the Jomon period (ca. 11,000 BC–ca. 5th century BC). This exhibition shows a range of such works featuring bears.
Exhibit includes:
Clay Bear, Made by Jomon People, Excavated from Tokoshinai, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori, Late Jomon period, 2000 - 1000 BC (Important Art Object)
Wine Vessel, With bear-shaped feet, Western Han - Eastern Han dynasty, 1st century BC - 1st century AD
Bear and its Cubs out of Hibernation, Left screen of Bears in the Snow and Deer under Maple Leaves, By Yamamoto Tokoku, Meiji era, 19th century
Bear, Depicted by Natural Historian Painter, Compiled by the Museum Bureau, Edo period-Meiji era, 19th century