May 30-Sept. 3
Most people are familiar with the paintings and sculptures of 19th century Europe as forms of portraits. Portraiture, however, is recognized as one of the oldest genres of art, dating back to ancient Mesopotamian statues and Egyptian masks from more than 3,000 years ago.
This exhibition comprises 110 portraits selected from eight different sections at the Louvre in Paris and brings together ancient oriental, Egyptian and Greek art; Etruscan, Roman and Islamic works; more conventional paintings and sculptures; and various crafts, sketches and woodblock prints. Highlights include a section dedicated to Napoleon and Paolo Veronese's "La Bella Nani" (c. 1560), which is being shown in Japan for the second time in 27 years.
The National Art Center, Tokyo; 7-22-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Nogizaka Stn. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Fri., Sat. in June till 8 p.m., July through Sept. till 9 p.m.). ¥1,600. Closed Tue. 03-5777-8600; www.ntv.co.jp/louvre2018
