Snow-Viewing Entertainment c. 1771

Utagawa Toyoharu’s woodblock print, *Snow-Viewing Entertainment*, shows us a winter gathering of people in a large, traditionally-built interior in Japan. Made during the Edo period, this print reflects the growing merchant class's influence on art. With their newfound wealth, they sought entertainment and cultural pursuits. The imagery provides a glimpse into the leisured lives of those who could afford such gatherings, indulging in pastimes like playing games and enjoying the scenery. This print also subtly critiques the rigid social hierarchy of the time, with merchants mimicking the aristocratic tradition of viewing snow. Understanding such class dynamics helps us interpret the image as both a depiction of social life and a commentary on it. By examining historical documents, literature, and other visual sources from the Edo period, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural values and social tensions that shaped the creation and reception of this artwork.