A world renowned collection of Japanese prints is to go on show at Maidstone Museum.

Japan: A Floating World in Print is taken from the museum's own collection of more than 60 ukiyo-e prints which date from the 18 century to the 20 century, which were given to the museum by benefactor Sir Walter Samuel.

Son of Lord and Lady Bearsted, his collection was accumulated during his travels in the Far East while his father’s company, Shell Oil, was in business in the region. The works were donated to the museum in 1923 via the National Arts Collection Fund.

Among the Japanese prints on display are works by such renowned print masters as Utagawa Hiroshige and Katsushika Hokusai – one of Japan’s most famous and influential artists and whose iconic The Great Wave off Kanagawa forms the centrepiece of a summer exhibition at the British Museum later in the year.

Evelyn Palmer from the museum said: "The Japanese collection at Maidstone Museum is internationally renowned. We regularly welcome academics and experts from around the globe to examine the objects on display and in storage. Among the most popular items in the collection is the array of traditional Japanese prints.

“Our selection of ukiyo-e prints originates from the Edo and Meiji periods – eras when Japan finally opened up to the rest of the world following two centuries of isolation due to strict foreign policy. As such, the popularity of the prints among Western travellers was significant, and Sir Walter collected a magnificent selection.”

There will also be workshops and activities alongside the exhibition, including a flower arranging workshop and Manga art lessons for adults and children. There is also a a MuseumLates event on May 25 in conjunction with Wagamama, with food tastings, beers, juices, and sake from Japan.

Japan: A Floating World in Print is on at Maidstone Museum until Saturday, June 10. Entry is £4 for adults with under 18s free. Advance tickets are £3.50. For details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk