Illustrated Handscrolls of The Tale of Genji 1594

This illustrated handscroll of *The Tale of Genji* is a masterpiece of Japanese art. Completed by the artist Ryūjo (Tatsujo) in 1594, it depicts scenes from the famous 11th-century novel, *The Tale of Genji* written by Murasaki Shikibu, and its detailed illustrations and calligraphy are a testament to the skill of the artist. The handscroll format, common in Japanese art, allowed for long narratives to be unfurled and viewed in a sequence, and it was a popular choice for illustrating literary works. The artwork is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and is a testament to the enduring power of *The Tale of Genji*.