Adopted by the Kuki family, he studied at Keio University, then served in the Ministry of Education. In 1878, he traveled on business to the Universal Exposition in Paris and observed the art scene of various countries. He devoted himself to the establishment of the Imperial Museum, becoming the first president of the Imperial Museum in 1889, and contributed to government art administration in the Meiji period. Advisor to the Privy Council, Member of the House of Peers, and baron.