Biwa with Brocade Cover, from the series Musical Instruments 1808

This woodblock print of a biwa with a brocade cover comes from a series of musical instruments by Ryūryūkyo Shinsai in Japan. The image presents a lute-like instrument, adorned with a cover featuring a dragon motif, alongside a scroll and Japanese calligraphy. Made during the Edo period, the print reflects the cultural emphasis on refined artistic pursuits. The biwa itself had associations with court music and storytelling traditions. The inclusion of calligraphy and the dragon design indicate a connection to both literary and mythological themes. The choice of subject could represent an idealization of traditional arts during a time of social change. The image is rich with social information: the instrument is presented as something precious, and the calligraphy reminds us of the importance of education in Japanese society. Further research into the Edo period and the social role of music and art could help us understand the print's cultural context.