Bag Called a "Long Life" Bag
Medium
Woodblock print (surimono); ink and color on paper
Dimensions
8 5/16 x 10 9/16 in. (21.1 x 26.8 cm)
Classification
Prints
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929
Accession Number
JP1926
Art Historical Context
Welcome to the Asian Art galleries, where we spotlight the exquisite woodblock print *Bag Called a "Long Life" Bag* byūgetsusai Shinkō, a masterful creator of the Edo period (1615–8). This intimate surimono—measuring just 8 5/16 x 10 9/16 inches—captures the refined artistry of private Japanese prints, produced on commission for poetry societies or celebrations. Crafted ink and vibrant color on, it exemplifies the period ukiyo-e tradition blending technical precision with cultural symbolism. Surimono like this one stand out from mass-produced prints for their luxurious touches, such as emboss...