Title : Chapter 33: Back of Wisteria Leaves

Artist : Utagawa Kunisada II

Date : 1857

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Source : Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description : Kunisada's Genji pictures inspired other ukiyo-e artists to create images on the same theme. However, it was Kunisada who made Genji the protagonist into a conventional icon. Genji and female figures in Kunisada's prints always wear trendy, high-quality Edo kimonos. Genji's distinctive hairstyle is called Ebi-chasen-mage (literally, “a hairstyle imitating a lobster's tail or Tea Ceremony whisk”). Kunisada depicts Genji viewing flowers, playing a ball game, or riding in boats. This particular print series, Murasaki Shikibu Genji Cards, shows an extravagant style with rich colors and decorative elements including elegant flower blossoms and luxurious furniture and belongings. The images demonstrate the decadent atmosphere of the late Edo period, when many commoners started feeling that life should be enjoyed because it is as impermanent as a transient dream. At this time, the meaning of ukiyo became more optimistic, but also included a touch of irony. (from Tale of Genji exhibition 1/11/06-)

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