The Evening Wind-bell 1773 - 1793

"The Evening Wind-bell" is a woodblock print created by Kitao Masanobu, also known as Santō Kyōden, during the Edo period. Kyōden lived during a time of social transformation in Japan, where urban culture and artistic expression flourished. His print offers a glimpse into the lives of women in this era. The scene features two women, one holding a child, and another seated under a wind-bell, evoking a sense of domesticity and leisure. However, the image also hints at the complexities of gender roles and social expectations of the time. The women appear to be confined to their roles as caregivers, highlighting the limited opportunities available to them. One wonders about their desires, dreams, and personal experiences within the constraints of societal norms. "The Evening Wind-bell" invites us to reflect on the lives of women in Edo-period Japan and to consider the ways in which gender, class, and cultural context intersect to shape individual experiences. It is a reminder of the importance of recognizing the emotional and personal dimensions of those who may have been marginalized or overlooked by history.