Past Exhibitions
- Momoyama: The Age of Hideyoshi
- October 15, 2014 - November 16, 2014
Since the Heian period (794-1185), Kyoto has been the cultivated center of Japanese culture. Evidence of this can be found anywhere in the city, and a sense of history can be felt here. The Kyoto National Museum is no exception. The massive stone fortress on the west side of the museum-as related by the display of the ruins installed in the newly opened Heisei Chishinkan-are a part of Hōkō-ji Temple, where the hegemon Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598) once enshrined a colossal Daibutsu (Great Buddha statue). In light of this deep connection with this historic figure, the museum presents works related to Hideyoshi starting with his portrait, handwritten letters, and garments in special feature. By viewing these objects together, we discover not only a ruler with a grand vision, but surprising aspects of an indulgent yet familial man. We hope museum visitors will enjoy the collaboration of history and art here.
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