Illustrated Guide to Kyoto (Kyō-suzume) Possibly 1665

Curator: This is a page from the "Illustrated Guide to Kyoto," also known as "Kyō-suzume," by Asai Ryōi. The dimensions are roughly 26 by 17.5 centimeters. I'm immediately struck by the graphic nature of the illustration! The composition seems to compartmentalize daily life. Editor: Yes, the use of line is fascinating. The artist’s hand is quite evident, the labor intensive process involved in creating this guidebook underscores its value as a commodity. The detailed scenes suggest much about the social and economic context of Kyoto at the time. Curator: I agree, notice how the structure divides the scenes. We have what appears to be a tea ceremony above, and craftwork below, contrasting levels of labour and artistry. Editor: And yet, both rely on the same system of patronage and production. Ryōi is revealing the interconnectedness of various strata within Kyoto society. The book itself, the paper, the ink, the printing process—it all speaks to a complex network of craft and trade. Curator: Indeed, and that interplay between visual representation and social reality is what makes this so engaging. Editor: It gives us a window into the past and a fresh perspective on the making of art itself.