(Big tree and birds) c. 1830 - 1844

This print of a big tree and birds was made by Murata Yoshikoto, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century. It is an example of the Japanese art of Ukiyo-e, or "pictures of the floating world." This genre emerged in the Edo period, with the growth of urban culture and a new merchant class. Ukiyo-e prints were often mass-produced and sold cheaply, and were thus accessible to a wide audience. They often depicted scenes of everyday life, as well as landscapes, portraits of actors, and other popular subjects. The prominence of a large tree in this image may speak to a reverence for nature, common in both Shinto and Buddhist traditions in Japan. The inclusion of text also makes this image interesting. Is it part of a longer poem, or perhaps a folk tale? Understanding the meaning of this print requires more research into the cultural and social context in which it was made. By examining the history of Ukiyo-e and its relationship to Japanese society, we can gain a deeper appreciation of this beautiful work of art.