Mitate (Parody) of Xuyou and Chaofu (detail), By Kawamata Tsunemasa, Edo period, 18th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 10
October 25, 2016 (Tue) - November 20, 2016 (Sun)
The artistic genre of ukiyo-e, which takes the common people of the Edo period (1603–1868) as its subject matter, is rich in seasonal references and witty content. This exhibition will feature an important work from the Kanbun bijin (lit. beautiful women of the Kanbun-era) genre of painting, which is considered the predecessor of ukiyo-e. This particular work depicts the male Kabuki actor Ukon Genzaemon, who specialized in female roles. Moreover, prints of beautiful women by Suzuki Harunobu that feature autumn foliage and other references to the season, as well as landscapes by Utagawa Hiroshige will be on display. Hand-painted works with parodies of classical subject matter will also be included so that visitors many enjoy the great variety that ukiyo-e has to offer.
Current exhibit includes:
Dancer (Supposedly Ukon Genzaemon), Artist unknown, Edo period, 17th century
The Eight Scenes of Omi Province: Alighting Geese at Katada, By Utagawa Hiroshige, Edo period, 19th century
Auspicious Desires on Land and Sea: Wanting him to take a look, By Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Edo period, dated 1852
Beauty with Cat (Parody of the lady Onna Sannomiya from The Tale of Genji), By Togensai Eishu, Edo period, 19th century