The Art of Ukiyo–e | 17th–19th century
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Courtesan at a Writing Table (detail)
By Utagawa Toyohiro (died 1829), Edo period, 19th centuryUpcomingJapanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 20
September 29, 2026 (Tue) - October 25, 2026 (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 used 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 | Courtesan at a Writing Table | By Utagawa Toyohiro (died 1829) | Edo period, 19th century | A-7109 | |||
| Highlight | “Geese Landing in Shirahige” from the Series Eight Views of the Sumida River | By Utagawa Hiroshige II (1826–69) | Edo period, 1861 | A-10569-3220 |