Geïllustreerd boek met nuttige informatie

About this artwork

height 227 mm x width 138 mm

Art Historical Context

**Geïllustreerd met nuttige informatie**Illustrated Book with Useful Information created by Japanese artist Tachibana Morik around 1729–1730, is a compact woodblock-printed volume on paper, measuring just 227 mm high by 138 mm wide. Morikuni (1679–1745), a master of Edo-period illustration, specialized in *ehon*—beautifully illustrated books that blended art with practical knowledge. This work belongs to the popular *setsuyōshū* genre, encyclopedic guides covering everyday topics like nature, crafts, customs, and folklore, making complex information accessible to a broad audience. During Japan's vibrant Edo period (1603–1868), such books flourished amid rising literacy and urban culture. Morikuni's precise, lively drawings captured the essence of daily life, from flora and fauna to tools and festivals, reflecting a societal thirst for self-improvement outside elite circles. Printed via woodblock techniques—carving intricate designs into blocks, inking them, and pressing onto handmade paper—these volumes were affordable and mass-produced, democratizing education and entertainment. This petite treasure exemplifies how art served utility in 18th-century Japan, offering visitors a window into a world where beauty illuminated the practical. Its enduring appeal lies in Morikuni's skillful fusion of instruction and aesthetic delight.

About the Artist

Tachibana Morikuni · 1679–1748

Tachibana Morikuni (1679–1748) was a prominent Japanese painter, print artist, and illustrator active in Osaka during the Edo period. Born into the Naramura family with personal names including Sōbei and Chikara, he also used artist names such as Uzei, Gosoken, and Benji. He is best known for his versatile contributions to woodblock-printed illustrated books that combined educational content with ...