A Floating World Version of Saigyo at the Village of Eguchi (Ukiyo Saigyo Eguchi no sato)
c. 1715
Medium
Hand-colored woodblock print; oban, sumizuri-e
Dimensions
29.4 × 40.5 cm (11 5/8 × 16 in.)
Classification
woodblock print
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
44106
Art Historical Context
In the vibrant world of early 18th-century Japan, Okumura Masanobu's *A Floating World Version Saigyo at the of Eguchi (Ukiyo Saigyo Eguchi no sato)*, around 1715, captures the playful spirit of ukiyo, the "pictures of the floating world" that celebrated everyday pleasures amid Edo's bustling urban life. This hand-colored woodblock print reimagines a legendary encounter from the life of Saigyo, the revered 12th-century wandering poet-monk. In the classic tale, Saigyo visits the courtesan district of Eguchi village, blending themes of Buddhist impermanence with worldly temptations—a perfect mot...
About the Artist
Okumura Masanobu · 1686–1764
Japanese, 1686–1764