Illustrated Japanese Books At Rijksmuseum

The approximately 60 different illustrated books, together with several prints, will demonstrate the Japanese artists’ view of illustration as a considerable artistic challenge. In addition to landscapes and famous locations, the exhibition also includes depictions of flowers, plants, animals, customs and traditions, ceremonial events and erotica. Also on display will be spectacular books showing designs for kimono fabric and ceramics, which often make a surprisingly modern impression.

Arranged thematically and chronologically from the 17th through to the 20th century, the Japanese books and their covers included in this exhibition highlight the originality of the art of Japanese illustration. In terms of both colour and composition, the images are surprising and imaginative, depicting scenes that are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, yet recognisable to Western eyes.

Many of the publications in the exhibition contain sample drawings intended to inspire artists and amateurs alike. During the 19th century, these sample and pattern books enjoyed immense popularity, with their spectacular motifs for kimonos, ceramics and fans.

The Illustrated Japanese Books exhibition was made possible through the recent acquisition of a collection of 224 books dating from the 17th through to the 20th century. The collection was a joint purchase by the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam and the National Museum of Ethnology in Leiden, which own the two largest illustrated Japanese book collections in the Netherlands. -- www.rijksmuseum.nl