Thirty-third Memorial for Yoshida Bunzaburô II

Catalog note / 解説

This print commemorates the thirty-third poetry gathering held to mark the death of Bunraku puppeteer and playwright Yoshida Bunzaburô II (1732-90). It includes poems composed for the occasion, as well as a depiction of a portable shrine decorated with autumn plants, and a pilgrim's hat and staff. The print is evidence of the vibrant urban culture which flourished in the Edo period (1615-1868). Members of the theatre community often participated in wider cultural activities than just the theatre, for example poetry salons. Developments in wood-block printing meant that their achievements - both on and off stage - could be kept for posterity in beautiful form. Materials: Colour print from wo…