Benzaiten, from the series "The Seven Gods of Good Luck in the Floating World (Ukiyo Shichi Fukujin)" c. 1769

This is Suzuki Harunobu’s woodblock print, "Benzaiten, from the series "The Seven Gods of Good Luck in the Floating World", created sometime before 1770. Suzuki Harunobu emerged during a time when Japanese society was experiencing economic growth and cultural flourishing, particularly amongst the merchant classes. Here, we see two figures rendered with elegance and subtlety, characteristic of Harunobu’s style. These are not mere portraits; rather, they seem to embody ideals of feminine beauty and grace valued in the Edo period. Notice the delicate lines and soft colors, which invite a sense of intimacy. What do you make of the women's clothes and gestures? Are they a reflection of the artist's environment? Harunobu was known for his innovative approach to color printing, and this print exemplifies that. The attention to detail extends beyond the figures, encompassing the setting and symbolic elements within the lanterns. This work reflects the way societal values shape our perceptions of beauty, class, and gender.