Still Life with a Gourd 1822

This woodblock print, *Still Life with a Gourd*, was made by Yashima Gakutei around the mid-19th century. We see a composition dominated by rounded forms and muted colors. The gourds and other rounded objects cluster together, partly obscured by white floral puffs which could be seen to disrupt the overall arrangement of shapes. What is also important here is the print's relation to language and culture. The inscriptions framing the objects give the image a semiotic dimension. The shapes and forms are not just objects but also signs embedded in a cultural context, evoking classical poetry and calligraphy. The careful arrangement of elements here represents a sophisticated engagement with tradition and innovation. Ultimately, the work functions as a visual sign. The interplay between the visual and textual elements invites viewers to decode its meaning, prompting ongoing interpretations of Japanese aesthetics.