Battledore and shuttlecock c. 1748

"Battledore and Shuttlecock" is a woodblock print by Ishikawa Toyonobu, a prominent Japanese artist active in the mid-18th century. The print depicts two women in traditional attire playing the popular Japanese game of battledore and shuttlecock. The scene is set against a backdrop of a blossoming plum tree, a symbol of spring and renewal, and the print reflects the playful and lighthearted nature of the game. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the figures and their clothing showcase Toyonobu's skill in woodblock printing, and the composition further highlights the beauty and elegance of Japanese culture. This print is a fine example of ukiyo-e art, which depicted everyday life and popular culture, and is now held in the esteemed collection of The Art Institute of Chicago.