The Fifth Month (Satsuki)

Catalog note / 解説

Object Type Woodblock prints such as this were produced in large numbers in 18th- and 19th-century Japan. Images were generally printed on paper of a standard size. Here three such sheets have been used to create a larger picture. Woodblock prints are sometimes called <i>ukiyo-e</i>, which means 'pictures of the floating world'. This world was that of the pleasure district with its brothels, theatres and teahouses. Subject Depicted The Tale of Genji was written by a court lady in the 11th century and is considered the world's first novel. It tells the story of the life and loves of Prince Genji, and, after his death, of Kaoru, supposedly his son but actually the grandson of his best friend.…