Genji-e - The Tale of Genji in Ukiyo-e

Finished

When one hears "Genji-e" (Genji pictures), the first thing that comes to mind is likely the elegant picture scrolls of the classic literary masterpiece "The Tale of Genji," created by Shikibu Murasaki. However, the "Genji-e" that was popular among the common people in the Edo period depicted scenes and characters from the illustrated book "Genji in the Countryside," written by Tanehiko Ryutei. "Genji in the Countryside" is an adaptation novel of "The Tale of Genji," intertwining the amorous adventures of the protagonist, Mitsuhira Ashikaga, with the family troubles of the Muromachi period. It became an instant bestseller when it was published in 1829, featuring illustrations by the highly popular artist Kunisada Utagawa (Toyokuni III). However, due to criticisms during the Tenpo Reforms, it was banned from sale while still incomplete. Nevertheless, the popularity of "Genji-e" continued to rise, and after the relaxation of the reforms, sequels to "Genji in the Countryside" were published. Many ukiyo-e artists created "Genji-e," depicting Mitsuhira Ashikaga and other characters.

This exhibition introduces representative works of "Genji-e," including the series "Imagenji Nishiki-e Awase," and triptychs.

Schedule

Feb 7 (Wed) 2024-Mar 24 (Sun) 2024