Shunga was a graphically erotic genre of ukiyo-e woodblock print that thrived in Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868). Their depictions of healthy expression of human desire (as well as ‘not-so-healthy’ liaisons with sea creatures) delighted the masses, before the arrival of Western morals saw the genre suppressed by censorship laws.
This exhibition, held to mark the release of Shunga documentary film ‘Haru no e’, whisks you from Ginza back to the sexually liberal days of Old Edo via 50-plus original Shunga pieces. These include works by ukiyo-e’s most celebrated artist, Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849).
Shunga in its heyday had a broad appeal: the samurai class considered it lucky to carry a print, and depictions of same-sex enjoyment formed part of the genre. In the present day, Shunga’s appeal goes far beyond the male gaze: as this exhibition’s organisers point out, Tokyo’s first major exhibition of the genre, held in 2015, attracted an audience that was around 50% female.
Note: admission is restricted to those aged 18 and over. Tickets must be purchased in advance here.
Text by Darren Gore