Hotei Reading a Book, no. 11 from a series of 12 prints c. 1708

Okumura Masanobu created this woodblock print called ‘Hotei Reading a Book’ in Japan, sometime in the first half of the 18th century. As part of a set of twelve, it provides an intriguing insight into the values, beliefs, and artistic practices of the Edo period. Hotei, the jolly god of contentment and abundance, appears here with a scholar's book in hand. The musician accompanying him underscores the importance of art and learning in the cultural life of the time. Note the way the artist employs simple lines and forms, reflecting the influence of calligraphy and emphasizing the essential character of the subjects. Prints like this were a vital part of a flourishing popular culture, accessible to a wide audience beyond the elite circles of society. Through such works, we can explore the social dynamics and cultural identities of Edo-period Japan. To fully appreciate this print, one might delve into the history of Japanese Buddhism, the development of woodblock printing techniques, and the social context in which these images circulated.