Imayo shokunin zukushi uta awase
Medium
Woodblock printed book
Dimensions
23.2 × 16.2 cm (9 3/16 × 6 7/16 in.)
Classification
book
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
153569
Art Historical Context
Welcome to the Arts of Asia collection at the Art Institute of Chicago, where you'll find *Imayo shokunin zukushi uta awase*, a delightful woodblock printed book byo Masayoshi, known as Kuwagata Keai. This compact volume, measuring 23.2 × 16.2 cm, the vibrant spirit of Edo Japan (1603–1868). Masayoshi, a ukiyo-e artist in the late 18 century, was renowned for his lively illustrations of everyday life, blending humor and keen observation. The title translates to "Imayo Song Contest of Craftsmen," referring to *imayo*—a popular, rhythmic song style from medieval Japan revived in the Edo era—and...