Featured Events in Nara in October, 2024 (May Updated)

In Nara, Japan, there is a "treasure house" which is only open once a year in autumn - Shosoin. Shosoin was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1998 as part of the "Cultural Heritage of Ancient Nara". The collection here is as many as 9,000 pieces, spanning a thousand years of history. The Shosoin Exhibition has been held for the 76th time since its first exhibition in 1946. Every autumn, the Shosoin Exhibition adds a touch of autumn color to the ancient capital of Nara, and this year's Shosoin Exhibition will be held as scheduled. The poster cover this time features a gold-glazed twelve-prism mirror. This is the only silver-tin alloy mirror in the collection of the Shosoin Repository. The decorative pattern is separated by gold threads, which is extremely gorgeous. It is also the oldest and most precious enamel product in existence in Japan. The Shosoin exhibition will display 57 pieces of treasures, 11 of which will be exhibited for the first time. This year, different types of exhibits will also be on display, including furniture, clothing accessories, Buddhist instruments, ancient documents, etc., including a gorgeous brocade elbow pad "Purple ground phoenix shaped brocade imperial scepter" (North Warehouse 47), "Green glazed small ruler" (Central Warehouse 111), "Dark green glazed fish shape" (Central Warehouse 128) and other items used by Emperor Shomu, in order to fully present the charm of the Shosoin collection.

Goharu (1752-1811) was an artist active in the Edo period. He changed his name to "Goharu" to welcome the spring, and was known as "Tsuki" in casual occasions. While learning painting and haiku from Yosa Buson (1716-1783), Goharu discussed painting techniques with Maruyama Oki (1733-1795), who was known for his innovation in Edo painting. His painting style was widely spread in the Shijo school and had a great influence on the modern Kyoto painting world. This exhibition will review Goharu's painting career through large-scale works such as temple ao-e, and observe the changes in his painting style that gradually refined as he pursued his ideals. In addition, the exhibition will also show his involvement in art fields such as haiku and Noh. Goharu's relaxed interpersonal relationships and exchanges with different people seem to have played an important role in the changes in his painting style.