Special Exhibition: "The Tale of Genji - Splendor of the Dynastic Court"

About this event

Authored by Murasaki Shikibu in the Heian period, "The Tale of Genji" is a dynastic court tale representing the history of Japanese literature. The romances and life trajectories of Hikaru Genji and uniquely diverse women, unfolding against the backdrop of the elegant imperial court, generated diverse cultures and arts as it continued to be read by subsequent generations. Bringing together exquisite paintings and craftworks depicting scenes and motifs of The Tale of Genji in one place, this exhibition rediscovers the charm of this masterpiece that has continued to impart rich radiance to Japan's culture by introducing later manuscripts, commentaries, and its expansion into performing arts. You can view approximately 250 diverse cultural properties on the largest scale ever (including touring pieces), such as the National Treasure "The Tale of Genji Emaki" (Illustrated Handscrolls), manuscripts collated and edited by Fujiwara no Teika, and "The Tale of Genji Emaki (Seian Edition)," also known as the "Phantom Genji Emaki" because parts are dispersed domestically and overseas making the whole picture unknown. This marks the first Genji exhibition held at the Kyoto National Museum in about 50 years. As highlights, this is the first "The Tale of Genji Exhibition" in about 50 years at the Kyoto National Museum and the first ever at the Tokyo National Museum, bringing together masterpieces of art related to "The Tale of Genji," the symbol of dynastic court culture. The National Treasure "The Tale of Genji Emaki," the oldest extant Genji picture scroll, will be exhibited throughout the entire period with scenes rotated, and many works will be showcased, including homecoming exhibits from abroad, the oldest Genji pictures with all 54 chapters complete, and the phantom Genji picture scrolls that have drawn attention in recent years. Exhibits focusing on Noh at the Kyoto venue and Ukiyo-e at the Tokyo venue are also planned.

Venue

Heisei Chishinkan

527 Chayamachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto 605-0931