In the late 19th century, with the better part of the West in the grip of materialism, a group of artists united under the label Symbolism in an effort to counter the trend. Instead of staying within the realm of realism and possibility, Symbolists pursued an ideal beauty and tackled the raison d'etre of humans. Their ideology struck an immediate chord with musicians and scholars of literature, evolving into a major school of thought that later swept through Europe. This exhibition will feature artists such as Gustave Moreau, Odilon Redon, and Pierre Bonnard; till Dec. 16.
Himeji City Museum of Art; (079) 222-2288; 68-25 Honmachi, Himeji-shi, Hyogo; Himeji Station, JR Line. 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. ¥1,000. Closed Mon. www.city.himeji.lg.jp/art/english/index.html
