Ladies Drinking Tea

Art Historical Context

"Ladies Drinking Tea" is a captivating color woodblock print created by the Japanese artist Ryuryukyo Shinsai. Measuring just 21.2 by 28.5 centimeters, this intimate work belongs to the surimono tradition—privately commissioned prints often produced in limited editions for special occasions such as New Year celebrations or poetry gatherings. The medium allowed artists to combine delicate lines with vibrant colors, sometimes enhanced by embossing or metallic pigments, resulting in refined pieces meant for close viewing rather than mass distribution. The scene captures women enjoying tea, reflecting moments of quiet social connection in Japanese culture. Surimono like this one highlight the elegance of everyday rituals while showcasing the technical sophistication of woodblock printing during Japan's Edo period. As part of the Art Institute of Chicago’s Arts of Asia collection, the print offers visitors a glimpse into the refined tastes of its original owners and the enduring appeal of Japanese graphic arts.