源氏物語画帖|The Tale of Genji (Genji Monogatari)

Art Historical Context

This exquisite set of twenty-four album leaves illustrates episodes from *The Tale ofji* (*Genji Monogatari the 11th-century masterpiece by Murasaki Shikibu often hailed as the world's first novel Created in the 17th century during Japan's Edo period (16151868), the work is attributed to Shōren'in Sonjuninnō and Tosausada, members of the prestigious Tosa school. Known for their refined Yamato-e style— by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and gold-flecked backgrounds—these paintings capture intimate scenes of courtly life, featuring elegant women, men, and traditional houses amid romantic intrigue and Heian-era splendor. Rendered in ink, color, and gold on paper (each leaf measuring 10 3/8 x 9 1/4 in.), the album format allowed for private contemplation, unfolding like a narrative scroll in miniature. The Tosa school's mastery of decorative techniques, including delicate gold clouds and architectural details, evokes the opulent world of imperial Japan, blending literary heritage with visual poetry. A gift to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1894, this treasure from the Asian Art department highlights the enduring cultural reverence for *Genji*, influencing centuries of Japanese art and storytelling.

About the Artist

Shōren'in Sonjun Shinnō|Tosa Mitsusada (Japanese|Japanese) · 1581 |1738 –1653 |1806

Japanese, 1581–1653|Japanese, 1738–1806