菱川師宣

About the Author

菱川師宣 (Hishikawa Moronobu, 1618-1694) was a pioneering Japanese ukiyo-e artist whose innovative woodblock prints captured the vibrant essence of Edo-period life, bridging traditional aesthetics with emerging urban culture. Born in Hoda, Awa Province, he moved to the bustling capital of Edo, where he apprenticed under the Tawaraya school and quickly rose to prominence as a master illustrator. Moronobu's oeuvre spans thousands of works, including books, single-sheet prints, and albums that depicted courtesans, actors, merchants, and everyday scenes with remarkable detail and dynamism. His style emphasized bold lines, expressive poses, and a sense of movement that influenced generations of artists. Notable for his contributions to the genji-e genre of erotic art and his role in popularizing printed erotica, Moronobu's legacy endures as the foundational figure of ukiyo-e, with works like '初春のいわひ (国立図書館コレクション) (Japanese Edition)' exemplifying his skillful portrayal of seasonal festivities and human joy.