Late Spring' Narihira and Attendant 

Toyota Hokkei created this Ukiyo-e woodblock print, titled 'Late Spring' Narihira and Attendant,' amidst the cultural vibrancy of the Edo period in Japan. This era was characterized by the rise of a merchant class and the flourishing of arts and culture, often intertwined with the strict social hierarchies of the time. The print depicts a scene with Ariwara no Narihira, a renowned Heian era courtier and poet, and an attendant in what seems to be a moment of quiet contemplation. Hokkei subtly engages with themes of class and identity by portraying Narihira, a symbol of aristocratic refinement, in a relaxed, almost vulnerable state, attended by someone of a lower social status. The poetry inscribed on the print adds another layer to the scene, evoking emotions tied to nature and fleeting beauty, common in Japanese art. Hokkei uses traditional representations while offering an intimate glimpse into the lives of its figures. The imagery invites reflection on the interplay between social roles, personal emotions, and the transience of life.