Edo in Colour

This event has ended

Chester Beatty, Friday 28th May - Sunday 5th December

From Chester Beatty’s own collections, Edo in Colour explores how woodblock prints shaped fashion, fame and identity in the city now known as Tokyo. From pictures of actors and beauties to masterpieces by Hokusai and Hiroshige, these prints were once as affordable as they are aesthetically refined—a driving force within the popular culture of this vibrant metropolis. Featuring more than one hundred prints and printed books from Japan’s Edo period (c. 1603–1868), the exhibition will be shown in two parts with more to explore online and in the accompanying catalogue. A full programme of lectures, talks and artist-led activities is planned and a selection of Edo-themed prints, stationery and facemasks are available onsite or online from the museum’s Gift Shop.

The Chester Beatty’s collections of Japanese art are internationally renowned. Alfred Chester Beatty (1875–1968) had a long interest in the arts of Japan, but only began collecting Japanese prints in earnest after his move to Dublin. Guided by print specialist Jack Hillier (1912–1995), this exceptional collection which today encompasses more than 850 single sheet prints and 100 printed books was brought together between 1954 and 1963. As part of the project, the commercially-published Japanese prints within the collection (some 450 works) have been fully digitised and made available online.

Presented with the support of the Japan Foundation and Toshiba International Foundation.


Date:
Friday 28th May - Sunday 5th December
Time:
Varies
Price:
Free
Address:
Chester Beatty, Dublin 2, Ireland

Google Map of Chester Beatty, Dublin 2, Ireland

You might also like...

What's on

The Snow Queen

The Helix

Join The Helix this festive season for a sparkling winter adventure like no other. Produced by the sensational TheatreworX Productions, this year’s panto promises a flurry of festive fun, magical mayhem, and all the glittering joy you’ve come to expect from Dublin’s favourite family tradition. Step into a world of snow-kissed magic as Lola, Buddy, Laurel, and a blizzard of new characters set off on a whirlwind journey to Merryville and beyond. Packed with laughter, surprises, and heart-warming moments, THE SNOW QUEEN is the perfect festive treat for all ages. ​ Whether you're a li

What's on

The Christmas Circus of Wonders & Curiosities

Lucan House

This Christmas, the historic grounds of Lucan House will be transformed into a world of festive magic as Broken Theatre presents The Christmas Circus of Wonders & Curiosities. Running from Friday 21 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026, this thrilling, family‑friendly production blends breathtaking circus artistry with the spirit of the season. Taking inspiration from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the show follows the transformative adventure of Mr. Scrooge as he rediscovers the joy of Christmas through the wonder of the circus. Expect a spectacular mix of aerial acts high i

What's on

Beauty and the Beast

Gaiety Theatre

A tale as old as time, featuring a host of well-loved characters and lovable crockery! Beauty and the Beast tells the story of Belle and the dreaded Beast in his lonely castle. Belle is beautiful, the Beast is – ahem – beastly, and Gaston is still totally in love, with himself! A story of friendship and love, mixing magic and adventure with spectacular song and dance routines and special effects to entertain all the family! *Family Ticket: €55 | Running time: 1 hour | Suitable for ages 4+