The robe is decorated with wisteria flowers and fans with maple leaves, motifs dating back to the Heian period (c. 794–1185 CE) and associated with feminine refinement, elegance, and sensitivity.
The Highlights of the Collection: Noh Theater Robe

The Floating World of Video Games

Ukiyo-e and video games both went through a similar artistic evolution. Like ukiyo-e, video games have grown in cultural value.
Artists in the Collection: John T. Scott

A sort of jack-of-all-trades, the breadth of John T. Scott’s artistic mastery includes drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture; his subject matter ranges from self-portraiture to work with important political and social messages.
Highlights of the Collection: Letter to the World

Photographer Barbara Morgan translates the brilliance of Martha Graham into a black-and-white image.
Ilse Bing, the “Queen of Leica”

Ilse Bing’s photograph, Paris, Eiffel Tower with Branches, was taken in 1933 during the midst of her own self-discovery. Bing was born into an upper middle class Jewish family in Germany in 1899. Her family encouraged her academic education as well as her development in the arts and music. She enrolled in University of Frankfurt […]
Ansel Adams, “Winnowing Grain”

“Winnowing Grain, Taos Pueblo, New Mexico,” reflects photographer Ansel Adams’ interest in ancient cultures.
Highlights of the Collection: Berenice Abbott, Murray Hill Hotel
Murray Hill Hotel’s composition seems indebted to modernist photography of the period.
Highlights of the Collection: Marilyn Levine, F.M. Case

Ceramicist Marilyn Levine and stand-up comedian George Carlin both imbued their art with a working class humor.
Highlights of the Collection: Ansel Adams, Winter Sunrise

Ansel Adams woke before dawn for five days in order to capture the key moment of sunrise over the Sierra.
Highlights of the Collection: Hurrell’s Marlene Dietrich

Hurrell, the master of the glamor shot, worked with Dietrich to create a portrait that incorporates contributions from both.