Following the inauguration of the forecourt at the Asian Arts Museum on Thursday, September 29, we had the honor of attending the opening of the exhibition “Hokusai at the Foot of Mount Fuji.” A true treasure of Japanese culture available in our city of Nice.
Admiring the works of the great Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) is a privilege offered to us by the Asian Arts Museum. We can also thank Mr. Georges Leskowicz, who made his legendary collection available to the museum. This exhibition is organized around two themes: landscape and travel. We offer you a glimpse of the 126 original prints currently exhibited at the Asian Arts Museum.
Hokusai, Master of Landscape
Who has never seen a print by the master Hokusai? His name is eternally associated with his atypical representations of the Land of the Rising Sun. He redefined the codes notably with his three series of prints: “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji”, “The Cascades”, and “The Bridges”. These prints wonderfully represent Japan of the Edo era. These works are part of the imagery of Ukiyo-e, the “floating world pictures”, the fleeting pleasures of this world.
The Tōkaidō Road, Journey Across Japan
The Tōkaidō is a historic road linking Edo (now Tokyo), Shogunal capital since 1603, to Kyoto, the imperial capital. It is dotted with 53 stations to offer all necessary services to numerous travelers. The 500 km of this road could be covered in two weeks, with all the dangers characterizing it. Numerous encounters occurred along the way. Samurai, common people, merchants, messengers, so many people that the lords (daimyō), accompanied by their entourage, could meet. Hokusai painted seven series of prints and an illustrated book between 1802 and 1810. We can admire their beauty thanks to this exhibition.
Fabulous Objects
Finally, we can showcase some of the ten objects present at this exhibition. Among a Nō theater costume, a writing set, or Okimono, these objects are an addition to this exhibition already sublimated by the prints of master Hokusai. Also noteworthy is the presence of the eight notebooks of the Manga, a unique first edition accessible to everyone.
This exceptional exhibition takes place from October 1, 2022, to January 29, 2023. Do not miss this unique opportunity to explore Edo-era Japan through the masterpieces of master Hokusai. Many guided and family tours will be offered throughout the event. Workshops will also be offered to introduce participants to various traditional practices.
For more information: https://maa.departement06.fr/hokusai-voyage-au-pied-du-mont-fuji/hokusai-programmation-culturelle-48596.html
