Washing the Book - Isoda Koryūsai

A refined Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Isoda Koryūsai, depicting a domestic scene from the 'Fashionable Seven Komachi' series.

This woodblock print by Isoda Koryūsai depicts a domestic scene from the Edo period. The composition belongs to the series 'Fūryū Nana Komachi' (Fashionable Seven Komachi), which reinterprets the life of the famous ninth-century poet Ono no Komachi through the lens of contemporary eighteenth-century life. In this specific iteration, the artist replaces the traditional poetic themes with a quiet, everyday moment involving two women and a child.

The scene is set within a traditional Japanese interior. One woman stands, gesturing towards a bamboo blind, while the other leans against her, creating a sense of intimacy. On the floor, a young child is occupied with a book, an action that gives the work its title. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted ochre, soft reds, and earthy tones typical of the period's printing techniques. Koryūsai, a former samurai who turned to printmaking, is known for his technical skill and his ability to capture the grace of his subjects. The lines are precise, defining the folds of the kimono and the architectural elements of the room with clarity.

Koryūsai was a prolific artist, particularly noted for his 'hashira-e' (pillar prints) and his contributions to the development of full-colour printing. This work demonstrates his command of balance and spatial arrangement. The inclusion of the small bonsai and the simple tea set adds a layer of realism to the domestic setting. By placing these figures in a recognisable environment, the artist brings a sense of immediacy to the historical reference. The print offers a glimpse into the aesthetic values of the time, where daily activities were elevated through careful artistic observation and the refined application of woodblock printing methods.