Painting and Calligraphy | 16th–19th century
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Narrative Picture Scroll of The Tales of Ise, Painting by Sumiyoshi Jokei, Calligraphy by Otagi Michitomi, Edo period, 17th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 8
August 12, 2020 (Wed) - September 22, 2020 (Tue)Diverse performing arts flourished in Japan through the support of different social classes. A dance called bugaku was the main performance art of the imperial court in the Heian period (794–1192). It was based on dances introduced from China and Korea, and performed on special occasions like banquets.
The official performing art of samurai lords was noh. Early in its history, the actor and playwright Ze'ami (1363?–1443) developed noh into a subtle and elegant art form. Its plays often feature restless spirits or demons, who eventually attain salvation. Actors still perform these plays with chants and dances, wearing stylized masks and richly decorated costumes.
In contrast, kabuki theater was mainly enjoyed by common people in the Edo period (1603–1868). Actors did not use masks, but wore makeup and costumes with innovative designs. Many kabuki plays are inspired by historical or domestic events, captivating audiences with bold dialogue and movement.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | The Tales of Ise, Vol. 6 | Painting by Sumiyoshi Jokei (1599–1670); calligraphy by Otagi Michitomi (1634–99) | Edo period, 17th century | A-12341-6 | |||
| Highlight | Calligraphy in One Line | By Date Masamune (1567–1636) | Edo period, 17th century | Gift of Mr. Sugiyama Tōichi B-3173 |