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Eishi Chobunsai: The Samurai Turned Ukiyo-e Artist
Chiba City Museum of Art
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Chobunsai Eishi
Eishi Chobunsai (1756–1829) had an unusual background as a Hatamoto (direct retainer) and gained popularity not only for his beauty portraits but also for a wide range of artistic subjects. He flourished during the golden age of ukiyo-e known as the Tenmei to Kansei era (1781-1801), rivaling the contemporary Utamaro Kitagawa (?-1806).
Initially serving as the painter in the private storeroom of Shogun Ieharu Tokugawa (1737-86), Chobunsai learned painting from the official painter Michinobu Kan (1730-90). However, with the death of the shogun in 1786 and the resignation of Tadakuni Mizuno (1719-88) from the position of Rojū (Elder) around the same time, Chobunsai began to actively work as a ukiyo-e artist and eventually relinquished his samurai status.
During the vibrant period of nishiki-e (colored woodblock prints), Chobunsai, too, created numerous prints, establishing his distinctive style of tall and elegant bijinga (beautiful women paintings). He gained recognition for producing a luxurious series of prints. Around 1798, he shifted exclusively to hand-painted works, showcasing his solid artistic skills. An interesting anecdote from around 1800 mentions that a work depicting the Sumida River by Eishin was included in the Imperial Library of Emperor Kōkaku. Due to his family background, Chobunsai was particularly cherished and renowned among the upper class and intellectuals.
Despite being one of the significant ukiyo-e artists, much of Chobunsai's work was taken abroad during the Meiji era, making it challenging to grasp the full extent of his artistry in Japan today.
In this exhibition, the first Eishi Chōbunsai exhibition in the world, masterpieces of both nishiki-e and hand-painted works, including items returning from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the British Museum, will be gathered from around the world. The exhibition will provide a comprehensive overview of Eishin's artistic career, from his early works to his later years, introducing the allure of his art.
*There will be substantial changes in the exhibition during the period.
First Half: January 6 [Sat] – February 4 [Sun]
Second Half: February 6 [Tue] – March 3 [Sun]
Initially serving as the painter in the private storeroom of Shogun Ieharu Tokugawa (1737-86), Chobunsai learned painting from the official painter Michinobu Kan (1730-90). However, with the death of the shogun in 1786 and the resignation of Tadakuni Mizuno (1719-88) from the position of Rojū (Elder) around the same time, Chobunsai began to actively work as a ukiyo-e artist and eventually relinquished his samurai status.
During the vibrant period of nishiki-e (colored woodblock prints), Chobunsai, too, created numerous prints, establishing his distinctive style of tall and elegant bijinga (beautiful women paintings). He gained recognition for producing a luxurious series of prints. Around 1798, he shifted exclusively to hand-painted works, showcasing his solid artistic skills. An interesting anecdote from around 1800 mentions that a work depicting the Sumida River by Eishin was included in the Imperial Library of Emperor Kōkaku. Due to his family background, Chobunsai was particularly cherished and renowned among the upper class and intellectuals.
Despite being one of the significant ukiyo-e artists, much of Chobunsai's work was taken abroad during the Meiji era, making it challenging to grasp the full extent of his artistry in Japan today.
In this exhibition, the first Eishi Chōbunsai exhibition in the world, masterpieces of both nishiki-e and hand-painted works, including items returning from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the British Museum, will be gathered from around the world. The exhibition will provide a comprehensive overview of Eishin's artistic career, from his early works to his later years, introducing the allure of his art.
*There will be substantial changes in the exhibition during the period.
First Half: January 6 [Sat] – February 4 [Sun]
Second Half: February 6 [Tue] – March 3 [Sun]
Schedule | Jan 6 (Sat) 2024-Mar 3 (Sun) 2024 Opening Hours Information
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| Fee | Adults ¥1500; University Students ¥800; High School, Junior High and Elementary School Students, Persons with Disability Certificates + 1 Companion free. | ||||
| MuPon | ¥100 off / Up to 3 people / Applicable to general public only. Cannot be combined with other discounts.  Download the TAB app to get a discount on entry to this event. ※Paid subscriber only | ||||
| Website | https://www.ccma-net.jp/exhibitions/special/24-1-6-3-3/ | ||||
| Venue | Chiba City Museum of Art | ||||
| Location | 3-10-8 Chuo, Chuo-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 260-0013 | ||||
| Access | 7 minute walk from Yoshikawakoen Station on the Chiba Urban Monorail, 10 minute walk from the East exit of Chibachuo Station on the Keisei line, 15 minute walk from the East exit of JR Chiba Station. | ||||
| Phone | 043-221-2311 | ||||
| Related images | Click on the image to enlarge it |
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