Japanese Art Viewing in Kanto: The Envy of the World
- Kakitsubata-zu 燕子花図 (Irises) by Ogata Kōrin 尾形光琳 (1658-1716)
- Karajishi-zu 唐獅子図 (Chinese Lions) by Kanō Eitoku 狩野永徳 (1543-1590)
- Dōshoku sai-e 動植綵絵 (Colorful Realm of Living Beings) by Itō Jakuchū 伊藤若冲 (1716-1800)
- Yukimatsu-zu 雪松図 (Pine Trees in the Snow) by Maruyama Ōkyo 円山応挙 (1733-1795)
- Matsutaka-zu 松鷹図 (Hawk and Pine) by Soga Shōhaku 曽我蕭白 (1730-1781)

This
is not a simple smattering of assorted paintings. These are all
highly-treasured, internationally recognized masterpieces of Japanese art. Two
are national treasures! (Two additional works from the list would receive the
same designation if they were not owned by the Imperial Household Agency, which is exempt
from this system of registration.) Imagine, if it helps, the Mona Lisa (c. 1503–1519) by Leonardo da
Vinci at the Louvre Museum in Paris, or The
Night Watch (1642) by Rembrandt at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. How
fortunate we are to have paintings of this same high distinction, here, at
home, in Kanto.

Subtitled
"Japanese Art and Culture," this unique class within the Department
of English focuses on the
history and
culture of Japanese art, with particular attention given to Edo-period painting. Each
semester, after a thorough investigation of a selected artist's background,
characteristic painting style and works, the class complements or rather "enhances"
its studies with a research excursion to a corresponding museum exhibition. All
four poster images appearing on this blog in fact represent exhibitions
attended by the class. Yes, how indeed fortunate we are to be in the Kanto area,
the envy of every Japanese art enthusiast around the world!