礫川亭永理 (鳥橋斎栄里)画　壬生忠岑の見立絵|Courtier and Two Ladies of the Court, with a Poem by Mibu no Tadamine

Art Historical Context

This enchanting woodblock print by Rekisentei Eiri, created around 1791 during Japan's Edo period (1615–1868), captures a whimsical *mitate-e*—a playful pictorial parody that reimagines classical poetry in contemporary life. Titled *Courtier and Two Ladies the Court, with a Poem by Mibu no Tad*, it depicts an elegant courtier accompanied by two graceful women, evoking a waka poem by the Heian-era poet Mibu no Tadamine (active ca. 905). Eiri, a skilled ukiyo-e artist and follower of the master Utamaro, infuses the scene with vibrant colors and delicate lines, highlighting the beauty of everyday figures dressed in fashionable robes. Measuring just 9¼ by 7 inches, this intimate ink-and-color print on paper exemplifies the technical brilliance of woodblock printing, where intricate carvings allowed for layered hues and subtle gradients. The inclusion of brushes in the composition nods to artistic or poetic pursuits, blending courtly refinement with Edo urban culture. Such works were popular among the merchant class, bridging ancient literary traditions with modern sensibilities. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art Department, this piece reflects ukiyo-e's cultural role in democratizing high art, offering a window into Japan's poetic heritage and the era's fascination with beauty and allusion. A delightful gem for any visitor!