A Picture Book Mirror of Various Occupations 1685

This is “A Picture Book Mirror of Various Occupations” by Hishikawa Moronobu, a woodblock print from the Edo period. Moronobu was a key figure in establishing ukiyo-e, or "pictures of the floating world," as a distinct art form. This page offers a glimpse into the daily lives and social hierarchy of 17th-century Japan. The image on the left depicts the labor of crafting blinds, while the right side presents a scene of leisure, possibly a tea ceremony. The presence of both male and female figures prompts questions about gender roles and social interactions within these different occupations. The "floating world" evokes a sense of ephemerality and pleasure, reflecting the changing social dynamics of a burgeoning urban culture. Moronobu's work, by representing a diverse range of social classes, both mirrors and shapes perceptions of societal roles. The emotional undercurrent lies in the contrast between labor and leisure, inviting us to consider the human experience across different strata of society.