Snow on the Way Back from the Public Bath c. 1766 - 1767

Suzuki Harunobu created "Snow on the Way Back from the Public Bath," a woodblock print, in Japan during the Edo period. This was a time when urban culture flourished, especially in cities like Edo, now Tokyo. Here, two women are depicted sharing an umbrella, their bodies tilted against the falling snow. The print offers a glimpse into the social lives of women in this era. Public baths were not only places for hygiene but also social hubs where women from different social strata could gather. Harunobu challenges traditional representations by depicting everyday life with a soft, humanizing lens. The intimacy of the two figures sharing an umbrella speaks to the close-knit relationships within their community, reflecting the shared experiences and mutual support networks among women. Consider how this image departs from the more formal and idealized depictions of women that were common at the time. It offers a more accessible and relatable portrayal, grounding the subjects in a specific social reality. The simple act of walking home in the snow becomes a poignant reminder of daily life.