Art Beyond Time: A Special Ukiyo-e Exhibition in Ayabe City

A Journey through Time: GUNZE Ukiyo-e Collection Special Exhibition

From July 25 to August 4, 2023, the GUNZE Museum in Ayabe City, Kyoto, will host a special exhibition titled "A Journey through Time: The Beauty of Ukiyo-e." This event unveils 26 exquisite Ukiyo-e masterpieces from the Edo period that capture the essence of beauty and grace, focusing on works by renowned artists such as Kitagawa Utamaro and Utagawa Hiroshige.

A Glance at the Exhibition

The special exhibition features prominent Ukiyo-e pieces that portray the refined beauty and expressions of women, which are a highlight of Utamaro's works. Notably, 13 of Utamaro's pieces will be shown, demonstrating his exceptional ability to capture the subtle emotions and elegance of his subjects. Additionally, the exhibition will include four well-known works by Hiroshige, who, despite being famous for his landscapes, also showcased charming depictions of women. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty that transcends time.

Exhibition Details

- Duration: July 25 (Friday) to August 4 (Monday) from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Closed: July 29 (Tuesday).
- Location: GUNZE Museum, 1 Aonecho Zenzo, Ayabe City, Kyoto Prefecture.
- Admission Fee: Free

Visitors to the exhibition will discover not only stunning artworks but also a deeper connection to the silk industry, which is the foundation of GUNZE's legacy. The museum retains around 230 Ukiyo-e prints related to sericulture, and this exhibition is a curated selection celebrating beauty as depicted by these renowned artists.

Featured Pieces

Kitagawa Utamaro's Works

One of the standout pieces is "Woman Working with the Loom," which beautifully illustrates a woman weaving. Utamaro's hallmark is evident in the graceful features of his female subjects, their fluid movements, and the delicate details of their hair and attire. The scene captures the essence of diligence and artistry as the woman works skillfully with her loom, embodying the hardworking spirit of women during Edo times.