Kobe City Museum

In 1582, a representative envoy known as the Tensho Embassy was sent by Japanese Christian Lord Omoto Sorin to meet with the Pope and kings of 16th-century Europe. Throughout its eight-year journey, members of the embassy visited numerous European countries and their territories, including Italy, where the Renaissance period was in full bloom. The trip helped forge the first cultural bridge between the Japanese and Italian governments. This exhibition presents artworks from the Italian cities visited by the embassy, including portraits, crafts, tapestries, commemorative medals, ceramics, glassware, and more. Notable works include Portrait of Bia de’ Medici, a painting by Florentine artist Agnolo Bronzino, and Portrait of Mancino Ito, a likeness of one of the envoy’s members painted by Domenico Tintoretto.

Italian Art Exhibition • Until Jul 17 • Open: 9:30am–5:30pm (until 7pm Sat) • Closed: Mon • Admission: ¥1,300 • Access: Kaigan subway line, Daimarumae Stn, 6-min walk • Tel: 078-391-0035 • city.kobe.lg.jp/culture/culture/institution/museum