A Gallery of Tiny Art
The Takehisa Yumeji Museum will display ebu-tou (illustrated envelopes) in a new exhibition highlighting the popular miniature artwork of the Taisho and early Showa eras.
Takehisa Yumeji was known for his “Yumeji-style Bijin-ga” (beautiful women paintings), which adorned elegantly decorated envelopes. The vibrant and modern illustrated envelopes by Kyoto-based designer Kobayashi Kaichi were also popular among female students and have recently been recently making a return in popularity.
This exhibition will feature illustrated envelopes by Yumeji and Kaichi, as well as works by other Japanese painters and unknown designers. From sophisticated designs reminiscent of haiku paintings to modern designs for young women, the gallery explores the appeal of illustrated envelopes, which added elegance to letters while reflecting the trends of the time. There will also be a special exhibition corner in celebration of the 130th Anniversary of the birth of Kaichi Kobayashi.
Other featured artists include Asai Tadashi, Aso Yutaka, Ishii Hakutei, Ito Toshio, Kato Masao, Kawai Unosuke and more.
