Performing Arts
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Kabuki Costume (Haori) with Snowflakes and Nandina, Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue, Edo period, 19th century (Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 9
October 26, 2021 (Tue) - December 25, 2021 (Sat)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 | Kabuki Costume ("Yoten") with Hexagons, Clouds, Cranes, and Dragons | Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue | Edo period, 19th century | Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō, I-2089 | |||
| Highlight | Kabuki Costume ("Haori") with Snowflakes and Nandina | Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue | Edo period, 19th century | Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō, I-2062 | |||
| Highlight | Kabuki Costume ("Kitsuke") with Snowflakes and Nandina | Formerly used by Bandō Mitsue | Edo period, 19th century | Gift of Ms. Takagi Kiyō, I-2063 |