Illustrated book
Unknown Artist
1893
Medium
Ink on paper
Dimensions
9 1/2 × 6 7/8 × 1/2 in. (24.1 × 17.5 × 1.3 cm)
Classification
Illustrated Books
Culture & Period
Japan · Meiji period (1868–1912)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Lincoln Kirstein, 1959
Accession Number
JIB174.48
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delicate illustrated book, created in Japan during the Meiji period (1868–1912), captures a pivotal era of cultural transformation. Dating to 1893, it reflects Japan's rapid modernization while preserving traditional artistic forms. Produced by an unknown artist using ink on paper, the compact volume (9½ × 6⅞ × ½ in.) exemplifies the enduring popularity of *ehon*—finely illustrated books that blended literature, poetry, and visual art for educated audiences. The medium of ink on paper highlights masterful Japanese techniques, such as precise brushwork and subtle shading, likely showcasin...