Takanori Ogisu (1901–1986) was a Western-style painter born in Aichi Prefecture who spent much of his career based in Paris. Rather than glamorous landmarks, he preferred to depict everyday street scenes—old buildings, alleyways, shop fronts and cobbled streets. Through his use of thick layers of paint and subdued colour tones, he has left behind landscapes that evoke the passage of time accumulated within the city.

Looking at his works, one senses a mysterious warmth even in street corners where few people are to be seen. His gaze carefully captures even the weathered walls and signboards; his appeal lies in the fact that, rather than idealising Paris, he depicted the city’s true face—one visible only to those who lived there.