The Momiji-no-ga Chapter from "The Tale of Genji" (Genji Momiji-no-ga), from a series of Genji parodies c. 1710

Okumura Masanobu created this woodblock print, “The Momiji-no-ga Chapter from "The Tale of Genji", as part of a series of Genji parodies. The Tale of Genji, written in the early 11th century, was a cornerstone of Japanese literature and aristocratic culture. This print, made in the Edo period, reflects a burgeoning popular culture that playfully engaged with classical themes. The composition, while referencing traditional scenes of courtly life, uses humour to subvert the refined aesthetic of the original tale. Note how Masanobu employs exaggerated features and simplified lines, a departure from the elegant style of classical Japanese art. The print hints at the social transformations of the time, including the rise of a merchant class with its own cultural tastes and preferences. Historians can consult the records of publishing houses, censorship regulations, and the writings of contemporary commentators to fully understand the print's cultural and institutional context. By examining these resources, we can better understand the dynamic relationship between art, society, and cultural institutions.