Desk Screen, Writing Set, Painting of Tiger, and Mounting Paraphernalia, from Spring Rain Surimono Album (Harusame surimono-jō, vol. 1) 1818

Ryūryūkyo Shinsai created this Surimono woodblock print around 1820 in Japan, depicting objects associated with the art of calligraphy and painting. Surimono prints like this one were often privately commissioned, which allows us a glimpse into the artistic and literary circles of the time. The depiction of a writing set, desk screen, and a painting of a tiger points to the cultural importance of scholarly pursuits in early 19th century Japan. Tigers, though not native to Japan, were common motifs in art, symbolizing power and protection, possibly reflecting the influence of Chinese art and culture. The inclusion of poetry suggests the collaborative nature of Surimono, often combining visual art with literary expression. Analyzing this print, we can explore the social values of the Edo period, researching historical records, literary texts, and other visual materials. This gives insight into the intersection of art, literature, and social identity.