Throwing the Shuttle c. 1766 - 1767

Suzuki Harunobu’s woodblock print, "Throwing the Shuttle," was made in Japan during the mid-18th century, a period of relative peace and economic growth under the Tokugawa shogunate. This image offers a glimpse into the daily life of women in Japan during this time, capturing the process of weaving, a common domestic activity. Yet, Harunobu’s work elevates the everyday. Through its delicate lines and soft colors, the artist transforms this scene into an idealized vision of womanhood. We see a woman gracefully operating a loom, while a young assistant attends to her. The print reflects the aesthetic values of the ukiyo-e tradition, which focused on capturing the transient beauty of the floating world, a world of leisure and entertainment. To fully understand the print, scholars consult historical records, fashion plates, and other visual materials. These sources allow us to appreciate the work not only as a beautiful object, but also as a window into a specific moment in Japanese social and cultural history.