Keio Museum Commons will hold an exhibition of the Seiichirō Takahashi Ukiyo-e Collection, which was collected by the economist and former acting president of Keio University. In this second showing of the collection, we focus on two of the most important ukiyo-e artists of the late Edo period, KITAGAWA Utamaro and TŌSHŪSAI Sharaku. The exhibition showcases the ukiyo-e works of Utamaro, who was a master of bijin-ga (portraits of beautiful women) or “beauties,” and Sharaku, who was renowned for his yakusha-e (portraits of actors), with related materials by their publisher, TSUTAYA Jūzaburō. The exhibition will also feature works by other artists active during the same period. We invite visitors to enjoy the artistic “contest” between elegance enigma.

Concept
This special exhibition showcases the works of two renowned ukiyo-e artists, KITAGAWA Utamaro and TŌSHŪSAI Sharaku, through Keio University’s Seiichirō Takahashi Ukiyo-e Collection. Utamaro’s exquisite portraits of women invite us to dream of the fleeting elegance of Edo-period beauties. Meanwhile, Sharaku’s strikingly bold and unconventional actor prints challenge us to decipher the hidden emotions of the enigmatic artist himself. The exhibition also features works by their contemporaries and highlights the role of the influential publisher TSUTAYA Jūzaburō. Step into this space and experience the world of Edo-period ukiyo-e in all its splendor.

Related Programming

Workshops
KeMCo has put together multiple accompanying events for this exhibition.

Reservations will be accepted on the website from noon on May 26 (Mon.).

Touch, Talk and Discover: An Object-Based Learning Workshop with Ukiyo-e Prints
Join us for an opportunity to engage with original ukiyo-e prints—not through glass, but up close and in your hands.
This interactive workshop introduces Object-Based Learning (OBL), a hands-on approach that invites participants to explore artworks through careful observation, tactile experience, and shared discussion. While still little practiced in Japan, OBL offers a powerful way to connect with art through personal response and group dialogue.
Using genuine Edo-period prints, participants will observe textures, details, and techniques firsthand, and exchange reflections in a small-group setting.

Date｜August 1 (Fri.),　Session 1: 10:30–12:00/Session 2: 13:00–14:30
Capacity｜15 persons per session (reservations required; if there are too many applicants, a lottery will be held).
Application deadline｜July 2 (Mon.) (all applicants will be notified of their decision on July 11 (Fri.)).
Click here to apply. Closed

Workshop for International Students: Exploring Ukiyo-e: A Journey from Perception to Creation（Japanese and English）

Would you like to explore the world of Ukiyo-e not just as a historical art form, but as a living practice that bridges observation and imagination?

Join us for an interactive workshop where we’ll guide you from your initial idea to a personal Ukiyo-e-inspired artwork, through exhibition viewing, open discussion, and hands-on creation.

Together, we’ll reflect on the artistic features of Ukiyo-e, line, colour, and composition, and how they capture everyday moments. You’ll be supported in translating your own memories into visual expression, combining tradition with your unique perspective.
Come discover how your perception can reimagine the spirit of Ukiyo-e in today’s world.

Date & Time｜July 15 (Tue.), 14:00–16:30
Applications will be accepted on the website from noon on Monday 26 May. (Capacity: approximately 12 people, on a first-come, first-served basis)
*This workshop is aimed at international students at Keio University.
Click here to apply.　Closed.

Gallery Talks
Gallery talks will be given by the curatorial staff.
The event is open to the general public. There is no fee to attend, but a reservation is required.
Dates｜(1)June 25 (Wed.), 12:00–12:45　Click here to apply.　Closed
・・・・(2)July 1 (Tue.), 12:00–12:45　Click here to apply.　Closed
・・・・(3)July 18 (Fri.), 12:00–12:45 　Click here to apply.　Closed
・・・・(4)August 4 (Mon.), 12:00–12:45 　Click here to apply.　Closed

Venue｜Keio Museum Commons (Mita Campus East Annex)

Main Exhibits

1．KITAGAWA Utamaro (Illustration), Women Taking a Night’s Lodging (Triptick), Late Edo Period, Large format multi-colou r woodblock print. (1st half only)
2．TŌSHŪSAI Sharaku (Illustration), The Actors Sawamura Sojuro III as Nagoya Sanza and Segawa Kikunojo as the Courtesan Katsuragi, 1794 (Kansei 6), Large format multi-colour woodblock print. (1st half only)
3．TŌSHŪSAI Sharaku (Illustration), The Actor Ichikawa Komazō III as the Villain Shiga Daishichi, 1794 (Kansei 6), Large format multi-colour woodblock print. (1st half only)
4．TŌSHŪSAI Sharaku (Illustration), Actor Matsumoto Yonesaburō as Shinobu, Who is Disguised as Kewaizaka Shōshō, 1794 (Kansei 6), Large format multi-colour woodblock print. (2nd half only)

*1, 2: Keio University Collection

*3, 4: Private Collection

Concurrent Exhibition

 Keio Museum Commons, East Annex Stair Landing, Keio University Mita Campus

Flyer  
Press Release  

Organized by Keio Museum Commons and the Mita Media Center (Keio University Library).

Cooperated by MAYUYAMA & CO., LTD.