Eating in Edo
April 1 - October 8, 2023
Introduction
Culinary culture flourished in Japan during the prosperous Edo period (1615–1868), when Japan experienced its longest period of peace. These 18 woodblock prints explore the richness of Edo cuisine, its beautiful presentations, and the wide variety of ingredients from land and sea that contributed to its development.
Restaurants multiplied and cookbooks proliferated in the Edo period, signaling a booming food industry and a general appreciation and enjoyment of food. Festivals provided opportunities to indulge in symbolic dishes. In Japan today, New Year’s celebrations, flower-viewing outings, and other occasions still feature artful arrangements of delicacies.
Wai Yee Chiong, associate curator of Asian art
Exhibition images
