Morning glory 

This is Utagawa Hiroshige's woodblock print, ‘Morning Glory’. Made in 19th century Japan, it’s an intimate scene that gives us a glimpse into the social life of the time. The image presents a vibrant display of morning glories climbing a bamboo trellis, framing a tranquil courtyard scene. Hiroshige uses visual codes such as the arrangement of the flowers and the composition of the courtyard to evoke a sense of harmony and balance, reflecting the cultural values of the Edo period. Japan at this time was a society structured around ritual and social hierarchy. Woodblock prints, which were becoming increasingly popular, are a good resource for art historians. They provide insight into the daily life and cultural practices of the time. This artwork subtly comments on the appreciation of nature and the contemplative lifestyle of the period. To fully appreciate such an image, we need to consider its cultural and institutional context, using historical resources to understand its place in society.