Kyōsai: The Israel Goldman Collection
19 March - 19 June 2022
The Gabrielle Jungels-Winkler Galleries
Tues–Sun: 10am–6pm
Tickets £17 (£15 without donation). Concessions available. For the best experience, book ahead.
Friends of the RA go free
Kawanabe Kyōsai was one of the most exciting Japanese painters of the 19th century. Discover his work – some of which has never been seen before – in his first UK exhibition in nearly 30 years.
Known for his independent spirit, Kawanabe Kyōsai (1831-1889) is among Japan’s most important master painters. Witty, energetic and imaginative, his art continues to influence numerous artistic styles today, from manga to tattoo art.
Overlooked for decades, particularly compared to his earlier counterparts, Hokusai and Hiroshige, Kyōsai is now celebrated for his ability to bridge popular culture and traditional art.
Having initially studied under ukiyo-e artist Kuniyoshi, he combined his subsequent academic training to create his own revolutionary style, creating images from the terrifying and awe-inspiring, to the sweet and endearing.
Drawing from one of the finest collections of the artist’s work in the world, this exhibition brings together highly finished paintings, woodcut prints and illustrated books, as well as impromptu paintings (sekiga) created at sometimes raucous calligraphy and painting parties (shogakai).
• For the best experience and to ensure entry at your preferred time, book ahead.
• This exhibition contains some adult content. Please contact the RA for more information.
• Download our large print guide.
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Frogs and Fart Battles
Here's everything you need to know about Kawanabe Kyōsai in 60 seconds.
Image Gallery
Hell Courtesan (Jigoku-dayū), dancing Ikkyū and skeletons, 1871-1889
Two Crows with ‘Crow Gourd’ (karasu–uri), c.1884–9
Tiger Looking at Its Reflection in Moonlight, 1871-89
Ghost, c. 1868-1870
Famous from India: Elephants at Play, 1863
Shōki and Two Demons, 1882
Frog School, early 1870s
Skeleton Shamisen Player in Top–Hat with Dancing Monster, 1871–78
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