The Takano Collection : Japanese Landscapes by Asai Chu

Originally acquired by entrepreneur Takano Tokiji, the Takano Collection comprises a total of 11 oil paintings, 56 watercolors and sketches, and six hanging scrolls by Asai Chu, a Western-style painter active during the Meiji period. The majority of works in this collection were produced during Asai's stay in Europe while aged in his mid-forties, and display a mature skill. The 73-piece collection was donated to the museum by Mr. Takano's family in 1985, in accordance with his will.

Mr. Takano had aspired to be a painter in his youth, and even after entering the world of business he made continuous efforts to collect the works of Asai, whom he had long admired. This collection, which Mr. Takano began in his late twenties and spent close to fifty years accumulating, speaks eloquently of Mr. Takano's passion and enthusiasm.

This exhibition focuses on works produced while Asai was living in Kyoto after returning to Japan from Europe. It features six paintings of emotionally resonant scenes of Japan, rendered with a sense of simplicity and honesty.