Illustration of the Genji Monogatari (Asagao, The Blue Bell) 

This scene from the Tale of Genji was created by Tosa Mitsuoki in the 17th century, using ink and color on silk. Traditionally, silk was made by hand and reserved for upper classes, adding to its opulence. Here, the smooth surface of the silk ground allows for a delicate application of mineral pigments and ink, which define the setting and the figures within it. Look at the care used to depict the patterned clothing, and the architectural setting; the artist makes extensive use of line to create an illusion of depth. The method of production infuses the work with cultural meaning, signifying status and refinement. The labour-intensive process, from the cultivation of silk worms to the application of paint, speaks to a refined aesthetic sensibility, contrasting with the rise of industrial production. The imagery and process speak to histories of art, craft, and design, which all co-mingle in this painting. Appreciating how it was crafted enriches our understanding, revealing the labour, skill, and cultural significance imbued in this refined work.