Returning from a Poetry Gathering c. 1785 - 1789

"Returning from a Poetry Gathering" is a three-panel woodblock print created by the prominent Japanese artist Kubo Shunman, who was active during the Edo period. This artwork, which is part of the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, captures the daily life of Edo-era Japan, specifically focusing on a group of individuals returning from a poetry gathering. The image is a fine example of the *ukiyo-e* style, which translates to "pictures of the floating world," and often depicted the fleeting nature of life in the bustling urban centers of Japan. The print's detailed depiction of the figures' clothing and expressions, as well as the surrounding architectural details, contribute to a sense of realism and provide valuable insight into the social and cultural practices of the time.