Poem by Sojo Henjo, from the series "Six Famous Poets (Rokkasen)" c. 1764 - 1765

Suzuki Harunobu created this woodblock print titled "Poem by Sojo Henjo" in 18th century Japan as part of his series "Six Famous Poets." Harunobu lived during the Edo period, a time of economic growth but strict social order, and he often depicted the lives of people in urban settings. Here, we see a serene portrayal of the monk-poet Sojo Henjo. Sojo Henjo was renowned not only for his literary talent but also for his transition from a courtier to a Buddhist monk, a path reflecting a complex interplay between social status and spiritual pursuits. Harunobu captures this nuance through the delicate rendering of Henjo's contemplative figure amidst the tranquil temple setting. Harunobu developed alternative narratives by using his artistic skills to reflect the emotional and social complexities of his subjects. "Six Famous Poets" offers us a glimpse into the personas and the historical context that defined their identities.