It's been 24 years since the Idemitsu Museum of Arts held its last major exhibition on monogatari-e — illustrated narrative paintings that depict important scenes from Japanese traditional literature and Buddhist myths.
This time, instead of fixating on the linear narrative of such famous works as "The Tale of Genji" and "The Tale of Ise," this exhibition focuses on the artistic expression of themes, some of which differ from those in the actual tales.
Showcasing around 30 works, the six sections of the exhibition, each of which looks into different themes, offer a new perspective on ancient Japanese literature; Jan. 10-Feb. 15.
Idemitsu Museum of Arts; Teigeki Bldg. 9F, 3-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo. Yurakucho Stn. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Fri. till 7 p.m.). ¥1,000. Closed Mon. 03-5777-8600; www.idemitsu.co.jp/museum
