The Utsusemi Chapter from "The Tale of Genji" (Genji Utsusemi), from a series of Genji parodies c. 1710

Okumura Masanobu created this woodblock print titled, The Utsusemi Chapter from "The Tale of Genji," sometime between the late 17th and mid-18th century. It is part of a series that parodies "The Tale of Genji," offering a playful critique of Heian-era courtly romance. Here, Masanobu reimagines a scene from the tale, likely infusing it with contemporary Edo-period sensibilities. The characters, adorned in patterned kimonos, engage in what appears to be a domestic scene, perhaps a game or a shared artistic endeavor. Note how Masanobu uses the parody to reflect on evolving gender roles and social dynamics. The women, while seemingly confined to the domestic sphere, also exude a sense of agency. This print prompts reflection on how stories are retold and reinterpreted across generations, offering new perspectives on identity and relationships. By engaging with classical narratives, artists like Masanobu invite viewers to question traditional representations and explore alternative narratives.