Warriors Based on Novels of Kyokutei Bakin

Marking 250 years since the birth of Edo-era popular author Kyokutei Bakin (1767-1848, also known as Takizawa Bakin), Harajuku's Ota Museum zooms in on ukiyo-e created to illustrate Bakin's mainly samurai-themed novels. Although Katsushika Hokusai, who also knew the author personally, is considered the premier illustrator of Bakin's work, this show leaves Hokusai out completely in favour of pieces by Utagawas Kuniyoshi and Kunisada. The 80 or so prints on display depict mythical warriors, mysterious sages and spectral apparitions, offering an impactful introduction to the world of Edo's great man of letters.