Head to the Tokyo National Museum from January 2 for this popular New Year’s event. As 2022 is the year of the tiger, the museum has curated a special exhibition featuring a variety of artworks themed on this Chinese zodiac symbol.
Since ancient times, tiger motifs have graced many artworks in Japan, either as animals that reject evil spirits or as an image to demonstrate courage. Realistic sketches of tigers were created during the Edo period (1603-1868). On the other hand, tiger motifs from Southeast and South Asia differ in physical characteristics and colour schemes.
The exhibition includes a battle surcoat from the 19th century with a tiger design worn by samurai over armour to represent the warrior's spirit. You’ll also find a folding screen from the 17th century featuring artwork of a tiger emerging from a bamboo grove by Chokuan Soga, plus there’s a lacquer painting from the 19th century by Shibata Zeshin depicting a tiger chasing a smaller animal. Don’t miss the Chinese Cizhou ceramic pillow from the 12th or 13th century in the shape of a tiger.