Exhibitions

THE DAPPER, THE SEDUCTIVE – top stars of Edo glamour

2021.04.23(Fri) - 2021.06.08(Tue)

Overview

The Edo period flourished with cultural proliferation in major cities, where townspeople enjoyed themselves, notably in theaters and red light districts among other leisurely preoccupations. Some theatrical troupes rose to fame, producing their star actors who became known widely. Famous troupes included the Nakamura-za, Morita-za, and Ichimura-za from Edo. Meanwhile, houses of courtesans boasted mistresses who were intelligent and sophisticated on top of being beautiful.

The heightened interest in these amusement opportunities drew attention of seasoned painters, such as Tōshūsai Sharaku, Kitagawa Utamaro, and Katsushika Hokusai, who abundantly produced ukiyoes of popular figures such as kabuki actors, talked-about courtesans, and well-reputed waitresses at tea houses. The Museum presents an exhibition from its collection, showcasing the superlative aesthetics of the Edo fashion, offering a glimpse of superstars from the period.

Actor Ichikawa Danjuro VII by Utagawa Toyokuni, 1812

 

Actor Matsumoto Koshiro IV by Tōshūsai Sharaku, 1794

 

 

Eight Views of Famous Teahouse Beauties by Kitagawa Utamaro, 1796

 

Two Beauties by Katsushika Hokusai, 19th century

 

Scenes of Daily Life in Edo by Hishikawa Moronobu, 17th century