Jewel of the Full Tide (Manju), from the series "The Palace of the Dragon King (Ryugu)"

Art Historical Context

Ryuryukyo Shinsai’s “Jewel of the Full Tide (Manju)” is a delicate color woodblock print created in 1820 as part of the series “The Palace of the Dragon King (Ryugu).” Measuring just 20.8 by 18.5 centimeters, the work belongs to the shikishiban surimono format—a square, privately commissioned print often produced for poetry circles and special occasions. These luxurious editions allowed artists to explore fine detail and subtle color gradations beyond the commercial constraints of standard ukiyo-e sheets. The title evokes the legendary underwater palace of the Dragon King, a setting drawn from Japanese folklore. “Manju,” or jewel of the full tide, suggests a precious object tied to the rhythms of the sea, blending natural imagery with mythic resonance. Such themes were popular in early nineteenth-century Japan, reflecting both literary interests and a fascination with the mysterious depths of the ocean. As a surimono, the print highlights the refined techniques of the period, including precise registration and rich pigments on high-quality paper. Its intimate scale invites close viewing, rewarding museum visitors with a sense of the private, poetic world for which it was originally made.