Still Life with a Gourd 1822

"Still Life with a Gourd" (1822) by Yashima Gakutei (1786-1868) is a Japanese woodblock print currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. The artwork features a gourd and a turtle, resting on a bed of stylized leaves, amidst a background of flowing calligraphy. This print, a testament to Gakutei's skill in capturing subtle beauty, is a prime example of a "kiga" (pictures of things) which was a prominent genre in Japanese art during the Edo period. The work is also known as a "surimono," a highly refined form of print typically commissioned by wealthy patrons. The detailed depiction of natural elements and the delicate use of color reflect the artistry of Gakutei, who was a well-regarded artist in his time.