Scrolls of Choju Giga, Frolicking Animals (detail), Heian Period, 12th century (National Treasure, Lent by Kosan-ji Temple, Kyoto)
this scene on exhibit : April 28 - May 17, 2015
Japanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Special Exhibition Galleries
April 28, 2015 (Tue) - June 7, 2015 (Sun)
Known for its depictions of personified “frolicking animals,” Choju Giga, a National Treasure, is Japan’s most famous set of illustrated scrolls. This exhibition provides a rare opportunity to view Choju Giga in its entirety by bringing together all four scrolls and five fragments, some of which are preserved outside of Japan. It will also introduce cultural properties from Kosan-ji Temple in Kyoto, where Choju Giga was passed down through the ages, as well as beliefs and artworks connected with the priest Myo’e (1173–1232), who revived this temple in the Kamakura period (1192–1333).