Groeningemuseum Masterpiece Travels from Bruges to Tokyo for a Historic Exhibition Reunion
A significant piece of early Netherlandish heritage has departed Belgium for a temporary display in Japan. The 16th-century painting, known as Scenes from the Life of Saint James and Saint John, has made the long journey from the Groeningemuseum in Bruges to Tokyo. This international loan is now featured at the National Museum of Western Art (NMWA), marking a milestone for international museum collaboration.
A Centennial Reunion: What Visitors Can Discover
The showcase brings together two works of art that have not been seen in the same room for more than a century. In 1909, both panels were held by an art dealer in London. Shortly after, the paths of the two paintings split: one was purchased for the municipal collections in Bruges, while the other was acquired by the Japanese art collector Kojiro Matsukata.
Both paintings share the same dimensions, depict narratives from the life of Saint James, and are believed to have been created by the same anonymous master. This exhibition marks their first joint presentation in nearly 116 years, giving art historians and visitors an unprecedented opportunity to compare the works side by side.
Preparing the Delicate Masterpiece for Travel
Transporting a centuries-old artwork across continents is a complex undertaking. Because the painting is executed on a wooden panel, it is highly sensitive to changes in climate and humidity. Additionally, its substantial dimensions required meticulous preparation.
Collaborating with specialized transport professionals, experts from both museums designed a secure, climate-controlled container. The panel traveled via overland transport to Luxembourg before boarding a cargo flight to Japan. To ensure the piece arrived safely, Anna Koopstra, curator of early Netherlandish painting, accompanied the shipment to monitor its condition throughout the transfer.
Prior to its departure, the painting underwent extensive scientific examination and care. Since 2017, researchers have analyzed the artwork using infrared reflectography. Ahead of the Tokyo presentation, painting conservator Sofia Hennen cleaned and restored the panel, revealing its original details.
Planning Your Visit in Tokyo and Bruges
Art lovers have two opportunities to experience this rare reunion:
- Tokyo: The collection presentation is open at the National Museum of Western Art until May 10, 2026.
- Bruges: Following the Japanese exhibition, both paintings will travel back to Belgium. They will be displayed together at the Groeningemuseum from June 16 to October 26, 2026.
This exchange highlights the deep research connections spanning across the globe to bring historic masterpieces back together. If you are planning a cultural journey to explore the historic sights of Bruges, you can use Musemap (musemap.art) to easily browse local museums or find out what's on during your stay.
