Poem by Fujiwara no Motozane (ca. 860) from the Series Thirty-Six Poets 1758 - 1778

This ukiyo-e print by Suzuki Harunobu, part of the series "Thirty-Six Poets," depicts a scene from the life of Fujiwara no Motozane, a renowned Japanese poet. The print is characterized by Harunobu's signature delicate lines and soft colors, showcasing the beauty of everyday life in Edo-period Japan. The composition features a woman in a striped robe, possibly Motozane, overlooking a young child feeding a bird, conveying a sense of gentle domesticity and the appreciation of nature that was central to the poetry of the time. This work reflects Harunobu's mastery of the "bijin-ga" genre, specializing in depictions of beautiful women, and his skillful portrayal of subtle emotions and the fleeting beauty of everyday moments.