Celebrating 160 Years of Japan-Italy Treaty with Special Exhibition of Simonetta

Marubeni Gallery's Special Exhibition on the Legacy of Simonetta and Japan-Italy Friendship

Marubeni Corporation is excited to announce a special exhibition, titled "Celebrating 160 Years of the Japan-Italy Treaty & 550 Years Since Simmonetta's Death—A Glimpse into Italian and Japanese Literary Works Featuring the Beautiful Simonetta." This event will take place from August 6 to September 30, 2026, at the Marubeni Gallery in Tokyo, with the support of the Italian Embassy in Japan.

This exhibition commemorates two significant milestones: the 160th anniversary of the Japan-Italy Treaty and the 550th anniversary since Simonetta's death. Among the featured highlights is the exclusive display of Sandro Botticelli's renowned tempera painting, "The Beautiful Simonetta," which is housed within the Marubeni Collection.

Art from Botticelli's time served not only as a means to capture the visible world but also as a tool to glimpse the invisible. Thus, this exhibition endeavors to explore both Italian and Japanese literary works that incorporate the character of Simonetta. Featured are the poetry by the Italian poet Poliziano, titled "Poem for the Jousting Tournament," and the novel by Japanese author Kuniyoshi Tsuji, titled "Crown of Spring." Additionally, the exhibition will reflect on Botticelli's masterpiece, "Primavera (Spring)," delving into the themes and ideologies depicted within these works.

Exhibition Details

- Duration: August 6 (Thursday) to September 30 (Wednesday), 2026
- Opening Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
- Closed Days: Sundays and holidays
- Entrance Fee: General admission 500 yen

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For further information, please visit the Marubeni Gallery's website under the "Exhibitions" section.

About Marubeni Gallery

Since its establishment in 1858, Marubeni has been engaged in the textile business, collecting and preserving ancient textiles from the Edo period, such as kimonos, Noh outfits, and various patterns. Additionally, through involvement in the art business during the 1960s and 1970s, Marubeni acquired Western paintings, alongside modern Japanese paintings sourced through the connections with artists and art dealers. This collection is known as the "Marubeni Collection."

Opened in 2021, the Marubeni Gallery provides an ambiance interweaving aesthetics from both East and West. With the concept of being a space where beauty resonates across cultures, various exhibitions are conducted, focusing primarily on the Marubeni Collection.

Official Website: Marubeni Gallery
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