【Discover the Feature Exhibition】 Four Noble Ones

－Magnificent and traditional paintings of plants and flowers－

Feature Exhibition Room 2, 

February 1st (Tue.) ~ April 10th (Sun.), 2022

Moon and Plum

“Four Noble Ones” (or four plants that symbolize a wise man) have been painted primarily in Japan, China and Korea since ancient times. The four subjects of the paintings are orchids, bamboo, plum blossoms and chrysanthemums. The reason why these plants have traditionally been painted is that the qualities of each plant are associated with the ideal person who combines virtue, intelligence, and civility. For example, the flower of the orchid has a subtly elegant scent; the bamboo is straight and has a purity that does not break in the wind; the plum blossom has an innocence that can endure a harsh frost; and the chrysanthemum has the strength and vitality to bloom beautifully in late autumn.

"Four Noble Ones" were embraced by painters, poets and the literati in Japan during the Edo Period because of their longing for Chinese culture. Kamei Shokin (1798-1858), a grandson of the well-known Kamei Nanmei, also left excellent works in Chikuzen, Fukuoka. Moreover, beginners who are learning to paint have a fascination for the four subjects of the paintings, so these works were also produced by many feudal lords who loved painting.

In this exhibition, we will be showcasing the paintings depicting “Four Noble Ones” and its world of noble beauty.

Exhibition view