Benevolence (Jin), from the series "Five Cardinal Virtues" 1767

This print, "Benevolence" from the series "Five Cardinal Virtues," was made by Suzuki Harunobu in Japan sometime in the mid-18th century using woodblock printing. Harunobu was a leading artist in the ukiyo-e style, which flourished during the Edo period. Ukiyo-e, meaning "pictures of the floating world," often depicted scenes of everyday life, landscapes, and popular entertainment, reflecting the growing merchant class's cultural interests. "Benevolence" captures the idealized beauty of women and their domestic life. The scene shows a woman tending to a child with a landscape visible through a window or mirror. This reflects a society where Confucian values like benevolence were highly regarded, and domestic scenes were celebrated. The print's delicate lines and soft colors, achieved through innovative printing techniques, further enhance its gentle and refined atmosphere. Understanding the cultural context of Edo-period Japan, its social hierarchy, and the rise of urban culture is essential to appreciate Harunobu's work fully. We can consult historical documents, literature, and other visual materials to understand the world in which this image was made.