Brocade Prints of the Thirty-six Immortal Women Poets (Nishiki-zuri onna sanjūrokkasen) 1801

This woodblock print by Chōbunsai Eishi, titled “Brocade Prints of the Thirty-six Immortal Women Poets,” depicts a group of women in traditional Japanese dress traveling through a scenic landscape. Eishi, a renowned ukiyo-e artist, utilized the nishiki-e printing technique to create this intricate and colorful work. The composition highlights the beauty of nature while emphasizing the elegance of the women and the richness of their attire. The print, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a glimpse into the life and culture of Japan during the Edo period. This work is a classic example of ukiyo-e prints, known for their depiction of everyday life and beautiful landscapes. It exemplifies the artistry of woodblock printing and the mastery of Chōbunsai Eishi.