The Art of Ukiyo–e | 17th–19th century
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"Cherry Blossoms under the Moonlight in Nakano-chō, Yoshiwara" from the Series Famous Places of the Eastern Capital (detail), By Utagawa Hiroshige, Edo period, 19th century
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 10
March 12, 2024 (Tue) - April 14, 2024 (Sun)Prints and paintings called ukiyo–e were the first genre of art enjoyed by common people on a large scale. Economic growth contributed to the creation of this genre in the 17th century. As living standards improved, common people developed an urban culture that was passionate about trends, fashion, and entertainment.
At first, ukiyo–e depicted the celebrities of the day, especially actors of the kabuki theater and courtesans of the pleasure quarters (the legal brothel district). The subject matter later expanded to include topics like seasonal festivals, travel spots, and landscapes.Techniques for making ukiyo–e also changed over time. Early ukiyo–e were painted by hand. Artisans later started carving images into blocks of wood and using these blocks to print ukiyo–e in large numbers. These black–and–white prints were much more affordable. As carving and printing techniques were refined, prints with a brilliant range of colors became possible.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | "Blossoms on Asuka Hill in the Eastern Capital" from the Series "Outstanding Views of Snow, Moon, and Flowers" | By Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849) | Edo period, 19th century | A-10569-4620 | |||
| Highlight | "Cherry Blossoms under the Moonlight in Nakano-chō, Yoshiwara" from the Series "Famous Places of the Eastern Capital" | By Utagawa Hiroshige (1797–1858) | Edo period, 19th century | A-10569-3105 | |||
| Asuka Hill | By Kuwagata Keisai (1764–1824) | Edo period, 19th century | A-1023 | ||||
| Important Art Object | Inside and Outside the House at Night | By Kubo Shunman (1757–1820) | Edo period, 18th century | A-10569-335 |