Print 1779 - 1799

This print was made by Katsukawa Shunchō in the late 18th century. It gives us a glimpse into the bustling social life around a temple. The artwork presents a scene filled with women, some accompanied by children. As we observe them in their colorful kimonos, we might consider the lives of women in Edo-period Japan, and the constraints and expectations placed upon them. These women are not merely decorative figures; they are active participants in the social and economic life of their city. Shunchō's compositions often capture a sense of fleeting beauty and elegance, but they also offer insights into the everyday lives of ordinary people. The artist's focus on women allows us to consider alternative narratives, moving beyond traditional representations of power and authority. How can an image of people on the move become a mirror reflecting the cultural values and social structures of its time?