#Japan #Hokusai #Chiba #Ukiyo-e #Hiroshige

A Stunning Collection of Ukiyo-e Masterpieces

A monumental collection focusing on ukiyo-e's most treasured subjects, including the "Flower and Bird Prints," will make its debut on January 17, 2026. This collection, curated from a remarkable set lovingly gathered by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, promises to offer an in-depth look into the art of leading ukiyo-e artists like Katsushika Hokusai, Utagawa Hiroshige, and Kitagawa Utamaro.

The Art of Flower and Bird Prints

The flower and bird prints represent a less common genre when compared to traditional subjects such as kabuki actors and beautiful women in ukiyo-e. However, Abby Rockefeller deeply appreciated this genre and tirelessly pursued over 700 pieces, which she later donated to the Rhode Island School of Design Museum. In 2026, 163 selected works from her vast collection will be showcased in Japan across several prominent museums, including the Chiba City Museum of Art, Yamaguchi Prefectural Hagi Museum, and the Miye Prefectural Art Museum, commemorating significant anniversaries for these institutions.

Featured Artists and Their Masterpieces

Amongst the artists featured are Katsushika Hokusai with works like Peony and Butterfly, created around 1831-1832, and Utagawa Hiroshige with Swallows Beneath the Peach Tree, dated between 1832 and 1835. Another significant piece is Rooster and Hen, a colored woodblock print by Ito Jaksun from the mid-Edo period (1764-1772).

The comprehensive publication accompanying this exhibition will feature not only all included pieces but also in-depth analyses, expert commentary, and essays delving into the history and significance of the prints. Each museum curator involved has contributed their insights, enriching the viewer's experience.

Highlights from the Publication

The book is structured into various chapters that explore different layers of the flower and bird print genre. Notable sections include:

• - Chapter One: Covers leading ukiyo-e artists and their contributions to the flower and bird prints. A unique column discusses the intertwined nature of flower arrangement in the traditional context and its representation in prints.
• - Chapter Two: Shines a spotlight on Hiroshige's works, specifically focusing on large-format flower and bird prints.
• - Chapter Three: Investigates Hokusai's creations, delving into specific pieces and the styles characteristic of his school.
• - Chapter Four: Encapsulates seasonal delights through the renowned Ushiwaki-e prints showcasing masterful artistry.

Exhibition Timeline

The exhibition, titled Rockefeller Collection: Flower and Bird Prints Featuring Hokusai and Hiroshige, runs from January 17 to October 12, 2026. Here are the scheduled locations and dates:

• - Chiba City Museum of Art: January 17 - March 1
• - Yamaguchi Prefectural Hagi Museum: April 18 - May 31
• - Miye Prefectural Art Museum: June 13 - July 26
• - Hokusai Museum in Obuse: August 8 - October 12

This exhibition and the accompanying publication aim to shed light on an often-overlooked genre while celebrating the exceptional talents of renowned ukiyo-e artists. A joint effort by a dedicated committee, this project seeks to present these masterpieces in a way that is educational, insightful, and deeply appreciative of their art.

The publication will be available for purchase starting January 17, 2026, at a retail price of 3,000 yen, including taxes. Designed in a B5 format, this 240-page book by Sekai Bunka will be an essential addition for art and culture enthusiasts. For further details, visit Sekai Bunka or explore it on Amazon.