Frogs and Fart Battles
Here’s everything you need to know about Kawanabe Kyōsai in 60 seconds.
Kyōsai: The Israel Goldman Collection
19 March — 19 June 2022
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.
Please note:
• 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.
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).
19 March — 19 June 2022
Tues–Sun: 10am–6pm
Tickets £17 (£15 without donation). Concessions available. For the best experience, book ahead.
The Gabrielle Jungels-Winkler Galleries
-
Image Gallery
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Hell Courtesan (Jigoku-dayū), dancing Ikkyū and skeletons, 1871-1889.
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Two Crows with ‘Crow Gourd’ (karasu–uri), c.1884–9.
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Tiger Looking at Its Reflection in Moonlight, 1871-89.
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Ghost, c. 1868-1870.
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Famous from India: Elephants at Play, 1863.
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Shōki and Two Demons, 1882.
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Frog School, early 1870s.
Kawanabe Kyōsai, Skeleton Shamisen Player in Top–Hat with Dancing Monster, 1871–78.
-
Related articles
-
RA Exhibitions
11 months ago
Frogs and Fart Battles: Kyōsai in 60 seconds
Meet one of the most exciting Japanese painters of the 19th century.
-
RA Exhibitions
11 months ago
8 questions to ask yourself about Kawanabe Kyōsai
Wondering what you need to know about Kawanabe Kyōsai before you visit the exhibition of his work at the RA? Here are some questions to ask yourself about the artist’s life and work.
-
RA Recommends
12 months ago
Doughnuts, art and sake: a London tour of Japanese delights
From a noh theatre festival to centuries-old arts and crafts, via the best of East Asia’s doughnuts, Rebecca Salter PRA’s route round the capital includes cultural and culinary treats.
-
RA Exhibitions
1 year ago
Kawanabe Kyōsai: the demon with a brush
Kyōsai blurred the divide between the popular and elite art of 19th-century Japan. Christopher Harding introduces the master of satirical and traditional painting as a rare collection of Kyōsai’s art comes to the RA.
-
RA Exhibitions
1 year ago
Quiz: which artist are you?
Are you the sort who goes to a calligraphy party and comes home with a raging hangover, or are you more likely to nip down the road for a seance with friends?
-
RA Exhibitions
> 1 year ago
Francis Bacon to Women Modernists: introducing our 2022 exhibitions
From Francis Bacon’s eerie reflections on man and beast, to South Africa’s most celebrated living artist William Kentridge, our 2022 programme gives everyone something to look forward to.
-
