Bruges Masterpiece Journeys to Tokyo: Historic Painting Reunion Highlights City's Rich Heritage Near Museum Sint-Janshospitaal
A historic 16th-century painting from the municipal collections of Bruges is currently the centerpiece of an international exhibition in Japan. The work, Scenes from the Life of Saint James and Saint John, has made a long journey from the Groeningemuseum to Tokyo's National Museum of Western Art (NMWA).
This major cultural exchange brings together two long-separated masterpieces, highlighting the deep global interest in the historical collections managed across local landmarks like the Museum Sint-Janshospitaal and its sister institutions.
A Century-Old Artistic Reunion in Tokyo
The exhibition, which opened in Tokyo on October 25, 2025, marks the first time in nearly 116 years that the Bruges panel is being displayed alongside its companion piece. Both paintings share the same physical dimensions and depict scenes from the life of Saint James, leading experts to believe they were created by the same anonymous 16th-century painter.
In 1909, the two works were still together under the ownership of a London art dealer. Shortly after, their paths diverged: one was acquired by the city of Bruges, while the other was purchased by the prominent Japanese art collector Kojiro Matsukata. The Tokyo exhibition, running until May 10, 2026, finally reunites these long-lost sister paintings.
Preparing a Fragile Masterpiece for International Travel
Transporting a delicate 16th-century painting on wood requires meticulous planning. Wood panels are highly sensitive to shifting climates, and the painting's large scale made the journey particularly challenging.
Following extensive joint preparations by specialists from Bruges and Tokyo, the artwork was transported in a custom-built, climate-controlled crate. It traveled by road to Luxembourg before boarding a cargo flight to Japan, accompanied throughout by early Netherlandish painting curator Anna Koopstra.
Prior to departure, the painting underwent extensive research and preservation work. The research teams utilized infrared reflectography to analyze the work in detail, and painting conservator Sofia Hennen carefully cleaned and restored the Scenes from the Life of Saint James and Saint John panel so it could be displayed in pristine condition.
Experience the Shared Heritage of Bruges and Tokyo
For art lovers planning a trip to Bruges, this extraordinary artistic reunion will eventually make its way back to Belgium. After the Tokyo exhibition closes, both paintings will travel together to Flanders. Visitors can view the unified masterpieces at the Groeningemuseum from June 16 to October 26, 2026.
This exhibition showcases the global significance of the local collection, which shares its conservation expertise with other historic sites in the city, such as the nearby Museum Sint-Janshospitaal. Known as one of Europe's oldest preserved hospital complexes, the Museum Sint-Janshospitaal also hosts world-class historical and contemporary presentations that trace the legacy of care and artistic creation in the city.
When exploring the historic center, tracing these artistic connections offers a deeper understanding of Flemish heritage. To start planning your itinerary, you can browse museums across the city or use the map view to locate key cultural spots. For up-to-date schedules of local displays and artistic events, check what's on exhibitions during your visit with Musemap (musemap.art).
