Lineage of Eccentrics Matabei to Kuniyoshi

Nobuo TSUJI is the premier authority on Japanese aesthetics, having studied the topic for nearly a half century. His unique perspective has helped him to illuminate a previously unstudied play-element in the country s aesthetic traditions, including certain eccentric techniques of expression found in Japanese art, decorative elements and animism. Lineage of Eccentrics: Matabei Kuniyoshi, published in 1988 by Perikansha Publishing, offered a reappraisal of the artistic practices of Iwasa Matabei, Kano Sansetsu, Ito Jakuchu, Soga Shohaku, Nagasawa Rosetsu and Utagawa Kuniyoshi, artists who had been considered peripheral to Japanese art history up to that point. By focusing on these artists, Tsuji was able to revive present day interest in their work and spirit. In addition to his writings, Tsuji has also left a significant mark on the education and development of Japan s art community through his work as an art university chancellor and museum director.