Selected Insects from Close at Hand (Chūka senzen 肘下選蠕) Possibly 1820 - 1827

Mori Shunkei made this woodblock print titled "Selected Insects from Close at Hand" in early 19th century Japan. It depicts insects amidst lotus plants, showcasing a fascination with the natural world. During the Edo period, Japan experienced relative peace and economic growth, fostering a flourishing of arts and sciences. Illustrated books like this one became popular, reflecting a growing interest in natural history and a desire to classify and understand the world. The meticulous detail in depicting the insects also points to the influence of Confucianism, which valued careful observation and empirical knowledge. But these images also need to be understood within the social context. In a society rigidly divided by class, the study of natural history was largely confined to the elite. Illustrated books like this one served to reinforce the social hierarchy by creating a sense of shared knowledge and cultural capital among the ruling class. To fully appreciate the social context of this artwork, we might consult historical texts on Japanese natural history, social commentaries from the Edo period, and museum collections that showcase the material culture of the time.