Erotische voorstelling c. 1678 - 1698

This black and white woodcut entitled "Erotische voorstelling," which translates to "Erotic display," was created by Hishikawa Moroshige. The print is an example of Japanese *shunga* art, a popular genre of erotic art produced during the Edo period. Meaning "picture of spring," *shunga* prints were not only aesthetically pleasing but also served a social function. They were often included in a bride's dowry to provide sexual education. In this *shunga*, we see a couple engaged in an intimate act. The surrounding details, such as the patterned cushions, elaborate hairstyles, and decorative objects, offer insights into the aesthetics and material culture of the time. The print challenges the traditional boundaries between public and private life. To fully understand *shunga*, it’s important to consult historical documents, social studies, and analyses of Japanese art and culture. Examining the social context in which art is made reveals its true meaning, beyond aesthetics.