Bugaku Dancers 1615 - 1868

"Bugaku Dancers" is a six-panel screen by Kano Yasunobu, a prominent artist of the Kano school, depicting a lively performance of bugaku, a form of ancient Japanese court dance. Created during the Edo period (1615-1868), the screen showcases Yasunobu's mastery of ink and color, capturing the elaborate costumes and dynamic movements of the dancers against a background of gold leaf. The scene is rich with detail and suggests a celebration of Japanese culture and tradition. Now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the screen measures an impressive 69 3/8 inches in height and 12 feet 2 3/8 inches in width. This artwork offers viewers a glimpse into the artistry and grandeur of the Edo period and its unique artistic traditions.