Parody of the Four Accomplishments 1850 - 1899

"Parody of the Four Accomplishments" was painted on a six-panel screen by Shibata Zeshin, who lived from 1807 to 1891. It reflects a period of immense social and cultural change in Japan. Zeshin's work often playfully subverted traditional artistic themes, and this piece is no exception. The "Four Accomplishments"—calligraphy, painting, music, and board games—were traditionally associated with educated men and were signifiers of social status. Here, Zeshin parodies this concept by depicting women engaged in these activities, humorously challenging conventional gender roles. The women are rendered with a light touch, their expressions and gestures conveying a sense of ease and intimacy. Instead of revering the traditional associations of the activities, Zeshin is winking at the viewer, acknowledging the changing roles of women in society. The screens almost invite us into a private space of women's lives.