Exhibitions: Past

Taiso Yoshitoshi (1839-1892), one of the greatest Japanese woodblock print artists, pursued varied subjects in his prints, ranging from nightmarish ghosts to scenes of domestic harmony. The set of thirty-two prints which comprise fuzoku sanjuniso, or “Thirty-two Aspects of Daily Life” are among his greatest artistic achievements. These lavish prints were issued in 1888 and are a testament to both his technical brilliance and aesthetic sensitivity.

“Seasons of Beauty: Yoshitoshi’s Thirty-two Aspects of Daily Life” will be exhibited in four seasonal rotations in the Special Exhibition Gallery on the second floor of Lenora and Walter F. Brown Asian Art Wing. Each seasonal rotation will present eight prints according to the traditional order. The first season’s rotation will be open from November 4 to January 17. Among the first prints are images of women engaged in activities such as reading a novel, getting a tattoo, and idly resting.

The four seasonal rotations of Yoshitoshi’s remarkable “Thirty-two Aspects of Daily Life” will provide SAMA visitors with an entire year of enjoyment. The prints, which are from a single first edition and in excellent condition, are on special loan from Lenora and Walter F. Brown.