{"title":"Kubo Shunman","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"white-mice-playing-kubo-shunman","title":"White Mice Playing - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined Japanese woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, depicting white mice on a wooden apparatus, typical of the sophisticated surimono genre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKubo Shunman, a polymath of the Edo period, produced this delicate woodblock print as a surimono. These private commissions were typically distributed among members of poetry circles, often featuring a combination of refined imagery and kyoka, a form of humorous or satirical waka poetry. The subject matter here is playful, depicting white mice navigating a small wooden structure, likely a toy or a training apparatus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is characteristic of the surimono genre, which prioritises a clean, uncluttered aesthetic. Shunman employs a subtle colour palette, relying on soft greens, muted blacks, and the natural tone of the paper to create a sense of quiet observation. The mice are rendered with precise, fine lines, capturing their movement as one ascends the ladder while another emerges from the upper box. The inclusion of calligraphy adds a layer of literary depth, integrating the visual art with the specific cultural interests of the patron who commissioned the work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTechnically, the print demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship associated with Edo-period woodblock printing. The use of embossing, or karazuri, on the bodies of the mice provides a tactile quality that elevates the image beyond a simple illustration. The dark box, decorated with a repeating floral motif, provides a grounding element against the lighter, more airy components of the ladder and base. This work reflects the sophisticated tastes of the urban literati in late eighteenth and early nineteenth-century Japan, where art and poetry functioned in tandem to provide intellectual and aesthetic pleasure. The print remains a clear example of the restraint and technical precision that defined Shunman's contributions to the ukiyo-e tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-young-woman-and-man-playing-shogi-suzuki-harunobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Young Woman and Man Playing Shōgi - Suzuki Harunobu — Suzuki Harunobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58412959072591,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58412959138127,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58412959236431,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58412959269199,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58412959334735,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/White-Mice-Playing_Poster_CompositorV1_1786111533358.jpg?v=1786111761"},{"product_id":"three-dancers-of-sumiyoshi-kubo-shunman","title":"Three Dancers of Sumiyoshi - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA delicate woodblock print by Kubo Shunman featuring three dancers sheltered by umbrellas, accompanied by traditional Japanese calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman depicts three figures in motion, their forms partially obscured by large, circular umbrellas. As a practitioner of the surimono style, Shunman produced works for private circulation among poetry circles, which explains the inclusion of calligraphic text integrated into the composition. The figures wear patterned kimonos, rendered with a restrained palette that emphasises the graphic quality of the fabric designs rather than realistic depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman was a versatile artist, known for his work in both painting and printmaking. He was a central figure in the development of the surimono format, which allowed for technical experimentation with paper quality and printing techniques. In this piece, the artist employs a delicate line to define the contours of the dancers and the structure of their umbrellas. The composition is balanced, with the overlapping umbrellas creating a sense of rhythmic movement across the frame. The figures appear to be engaged in a performance or a procession, their faces partially hidden, which adds a layer of anonymity to the scene.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe inclusion of Japanese script serves as a visual element that complements the figures. The text, likely a poem or a reference to the Sumiyoshi region, anchors the print in a specific cultural context. The use of muted tones, such as soft reds, ochres, and blues, is characteristic of the period and the specific requirements of surimono printing. This print demonstrates the artist's ability to combine literary references with visual storytelling, a hallmark of his contribution to the Ukiyo-e tradition. The work remains a fine example of the aesthetic priorities of the late eighteenth-century Japanese art scene, where the interplay between text and image was highly valued.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-young-woman-and-man-playing-shogi-suzuki-harunobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Young Woman and Man Playing Shōgi - Suzuki Harunobu — Suzuki Harunobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58412963889487,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58412980601167,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58412980633935,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58412980666703,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58412980699471,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58412980732239,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58412980765007,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58412980797775,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58412980830543,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58412980863311,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58412980896079,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Three-Dancers-of-Sumiyoshi_Poster_CompositorV1_1786111682765.jpg?v=1786112114"},{"product_id":"spools-kubo-shunman","title":"Spools - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined surimono woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, featuring a collection of thread spools accompanied by traditional Japanese calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman belongs to the genre of surimono, a form of privately commissioned, limited-edition print often exchanged among members of poetry circles in Edo-period Japan. Unlike commercial prints produced for the mass market, surimono were crafted with high-quality paper and sophisticated printing techniques, such as embossing and the application of metallic pigments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition depicts a collection of spools, each wrapped in thread of varying colours. The arrangement is simple and deliberate, focusing on the tactile quality of the silk and the functional form of the wooden frames. The inclusion of calligraphic text surrounding the objects indicates that this print was likely produced for a poetry gathering, where the imagery serves as a visual accompaniment to the verses inscribed on the sheet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKubo Shunman was a polymath, active as both a print designer and a poet. His work is noted for its refined aesthetic and technical precision. In this piece, the artist employs a restrained palette, allowing the subtle textures of the thread and the clean lines of the spools to take precedence. The integration of text and image is characteristic of the surimono format, where the literary and visual arts function in tandem. The print reflects the cultural climate of the time, where connoisseurs valued the understated elegance of everyday objects elevated through artistic interpretation. The careful placement of the spools creates a sense of balance, while the surrounding calligraphy provides a rhythmic structure to the overall design. This print remains a representative example of the collaborative nature of Japanese print culture during the early nineteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nissaka-travellers-on-a-steep-path-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNissaka: Travellers on a Steep Path - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413065437519,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413065503055,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413065601359,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413065634127,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413065699663,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Spools_Poster_CompositorV1_1786111798474.jpg?v=1786112324"},{"product_id":"inro-and-two-netsuke-kubo-shunman","title":"Inro and Two Netsuke - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined surimono woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, featuring an inro and netsuke alongside elegant calligraphy and embossed details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis surimono print by Kubo Shunman presents a refined study of personal accessories, specifically an inro (a traditional Japanese tiered container) and two netsuke (toggles used to secure the inro to a sash). Shunman was a prominent figure in the development of surimono, which were privately commissioned prints often exchanged among poets and connoisseurs. These works typically feature high-quality paper, metallic pigments, and sophisticated printing techniques like embossing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is balanced, featuring a dark, lacquered inro decorated with stylized trees on the left. Beside it sits a netsuke, rendered with subtle shading. To the right, a figure is depicted through blind embossing, a technique known as karazuri, which creates a tactile, sculptural effect on the paper surface without the use of ink. This ghost-like presence adds a layer of depth to the otherwise flat, graphic arrangement of the objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurrounding the objects are columns of calligraphy, which provide context for the commission. These poems often relate to the objects depicted or the occasion for which the print was created. The restraint in the colour palette, dominated by the deep black of the inro and the cream tone of the paper, reflects the aesthetic preferences of the Edo-period literati. Shunman, who was also a poet, integrated text and image with precision, ensuring that the visual elements complemented the literary content. This print demonstrates the technical mastery of the woodblock medium, particularly in the application of subtle textures and the careful placement of negative space. It remains a clear example of the collaborative nature of surimono production, where artist, poet, and printer worked in close coordination to produce a work of art intended for a discerning audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/courtesan-and-shinzo-suzuki-harunobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eCourtesan and Shinzō - Suzuki Harunobu — Suzuki Harunobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413219414351,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413219479887,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413219578191,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413219610959,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413219676495,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Inro-and-Two-Netsuke_Poster_CompositorV1_1786112835766.jpg?v=1786113381"},{"product_id":"bachi-plectrum-used-in-playing-shamisen-kubo-shunman","title":"Bachi (Plectrum) Used in Playing Shamisen - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Kubo Shunman depicting a shamisen plectrum and its patterned case, accompanied by elegant Japanese calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman depicts a bachi, the large plectrum used to strike the strings of a shamisen. The composition is characteristic of surimono, a genre of privately commissioned prints often exchanged among poets and artists. These works frequently combined refined imagery with kyoka, a form of humorous or satirical waka poetry, which is visible here in the elegant calligraphy surrounding the central object.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman focuses on the material qualities of the plectrum and its protective case. The artist employs a delicate line to define the shape of the plectrum, while the case features a repeating geometric and floral pattern. The use of colour is restrained, relying on soft tones to balance the visual weight of the text. The print reflects the aesthetic values of the Edo period, where everyday objects were elevated through artistic representation and literary association. By isolating the plectrum, Shunman invites the viewer to appreciate the craftsmanship of the instrument itself, detached from the performance context. The inclusion of the poetry suggests that the print functioned as a social token, perhaps commemorating a musical gathering or a specific poetic circle. The paper texture and the precise registration of the woodblocks demonstrate the high technical standards maintained by the printers of the era. This piece offers a glimpse into the sophisticated culture of the Japanese literati, where music, poetry, and visual art intersected in the form of small, highly finished prints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/courtesan-and-shinzo-suzuki-harunobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eCourtesan and Shinzō - Suzuki Harunobu — Suzuki Harunobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413545816399,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413545881935,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413545980239,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413546013007,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413546078543,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Bachi-Plectrum-Used-in-Playing-Shamisen_Poster_CompositorV1_1786114039313.jpg?v=1786114906"},{"product_id":"tsuba-sword-guard-and-bags-kubo-shunman","title":"Tsuba (Sword Guard) and Bags - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined surimono woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, depicting a sword guard and patterned fabric bags, typical of the sophisticated Edo-period poetry circles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman is a fine example of surimono, a genre of privately commissioned prints often distributed among members of poetry circles. Shunman, a polymath active during the late Edo period, was known for his refined aesthetic and his involvement in the literary culture of the time. This work depicts a tsuba, or Japanese sword guard, alongside decorative fabric bags. The composition is sparse, focusing on the material qualities of the objects. The tsuba is rendered with a dark, matte finish, contrasting with the patterned textiles of the bags. The inclusion of calligraphy suggests the print was produced for a specific gathering or as a commemorative token for a poetry group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurimono prints were typically produced with higher technical standards than commercial ukiyo-e, often utilising expensive pigments, metallic powders, and blind embossing. In this piece, the artist balances the functional, metallic nature of the sword guard with the soft, tactile appearance of the pouches. The arrangement is deliberate, avoiding clutter to allow the viewer to appreciate the individual textures and patterns. The calligraphy, integrated into the upper portion of the composition, provides a rhythmic balance to the objects below. Shunman’s ability to capture the essence of these disparate items reflects the sophisticated taste of the literati who commissioned such works. The print remains a quiet observation of material culture, documenting the intersection of martial tradition and the refined domestic arts of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/courtesan-and-shinzo-suzuki-harunobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eCourtesan and Shinzō - Suzuki Harunobu — Suzuki Harunobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413644317007,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413644382543,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413644480847,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413644513615,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413644579151,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Tsuba-Sword-Guard-and-Bags_Poster_CompositorV1_1786114570259.jpg?v=1786115602"},{"product_id":"young-nobleman-playing-koto-kubo-shunman","title":"Young Nobleman Playing Koto - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined surimono woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, depicting a nobleman playing the koto, accompanied by elegant calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis print by Kubo Shunman belongs to the genre of surimono, which were privately commissioned woodblock prints often distributed among members of poetry circles. Unlike commercial prints produced for the mass market, surimono allowed for greater experimentation with printing techniques, such as embossing and the use of metallic pigments. The subject depicts a young nobleman engaged with a koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. His posture is relaxed, reflecting the refined atmosphere associated with the aristocratic pastimes often celebrated in Edo-period literature and art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman was a versatile artist, active as both a print designer and a poet. His work frequently integrates calligraphy with visual imagery, creating a unified composition where the text and the figure share the pictorial space. The minimalist background, featuring a faint outline of distant hills, directs the viewer's attention to the figure and the instrument. The nobleman wears a patterned robe, rendered with subtle line work that demonstrates the technical precision of the carvers and printers involved in the production of such high-quality editions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colour palette is restrained, relying on soft earth tones and muted washes to maintain a sense of elegance. The inclusion of classical poetry alongside the image suggests that this work was intended for an audience familiar with literary allusions. By focusing on the quiet concentration of the musician, the print captures a moment of stillness. It avoids the dramatic action found in other ukiyo-e genres, opting instead for a contemplative aesthetic that aligns with the tastes of the literati of the time. This print remains a fine example of the sophisticated output of the late eighteenth-century Japanese print tradition, where the interplay between word and image was central to the artistic experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/lady-playing-with-a-dog-on-a-veranda-nishikawa-sukenobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eLady Playing with a Dog on a Veranda - Nishikawa Sukenobu — Nishikawa Sukenobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58413778010447,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58413794066767,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58413794099535,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413794132303,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58413794165071,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413794197839,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413794230607,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58413794263375,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58413794296143,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58413794328911,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58413794361679,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Young-Nobleman-Playing-Koto_Poster_CompositorV1_1786115586359.jpg?v=1786116425"},{"product_id":"designs-for-leather-kubo-shunman","title":"Designs for Leather - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Kubo Shunman featuring decorative leatherwork patterns and elegant calligraphy, typical of the Edo period surimono tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman presents a series of decorative motifs intended for leatherwork, a genre known as Yodoya-gawa. Shunman, a polymath of the Edo period, was a master of the surimono format, which typically involved high-quality paper and sophisticated printing techniques. These prints were often commissioned by poetry circles and private collectors, allowing for a level of technical refinement that exceeded standard commercial publications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features two distinct pattern studies. The larger design on the right displays a vertical, symmetrical arrangement of stylised organic forms, rendered in muted tones of olive green, soft red, and cream. The smaller design on the left focuses on a repeating, curvilinear motif that suggests a connection to traditional Japanese textile or leather ornamentation. The inclusion of calligraphic text provides a poetic context, linking the visual elements to the literary culture of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTechnically, the print demonstrates the precision of the woodblock medium. The subtle textures within the shapes, achieved through blind embossing or fine-line carving, indicate the skill of the carver and printer. The palette is restrained, relying on earthy hues that complement the tactile nature of the leather designs being represented. As a work of applied art, it offers a glimpse into the intersection of fashion, craft, and graphic design in late 18th-century Japan. The balance between the calligraphic script and the geometric patterns creates a structured, harmonious page layout that is characteristic of Shunman's aesthetic approach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/night-rain-at-the-double-shelf-stand-suzuki-harunobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNight Rain at the Double-Shelf Stand - Suzuki Harunobu — Suzuki Harunobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414114799951,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414114865487,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414114963791,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414114996559,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414115062095,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Designs-for-Leather_Poster_CompositorV1_1786118245709.jpg?v=1786118729"},{"product_id":"letter-box-and-plum-blossoms-kubo-shunman","title":"Letter-Box and Plum Blossoms - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined hanging scroll by Kubo Shunman depicting two women admiring plum blossoms by lantern light, capturing a moment of quiet evening contemplation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis hanging scroll by Kubo Shunman depicts two women observing plum blossoms at night. The scene is illuminated by a small lantern held by one of the figures, casting a soft glow upon the branches of the tree and the nearby letter-box. Shunman, a polymath of the Edo period, was known for his refined approach to the ukiyo-e tradition, often blending poetry with visual art. The composition relies on the contrast between the dark, atmospheric background and the delicate, light-filled details of the figures and the flowering tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe figures are rendered with the grace typical of bijin-ga, or pictures of beautiful women. Their kimonos feature subtle patterns that do not distract from the overall mood of quiet contemplation. The inclusion of calligraphy in the upper portion of the scroll integrates the literary and visual arts, a common practice among the literati circles Shunman frequented. The ink wash technique creates a sense of depth and evening stillness, allowing the viewer to focus on the interaction between the figures and the natural elements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman was a master of surimono, and his expertise in print design informs the balanced composition of this painting. The work avoids excessive ornamentation, favouring a restrained aesthetic that reflects the sensibilities of the late eighteenth century. The plum blossoms, often associated with the arrival of spring and resilience, provide a thematic anchor for the composition. This piece offers a glimpse into the cultural life of the period, where the appreciation of nature and poetry remained central to the daily experiences of the urban elite. The delicate brushwork and the careful application of ink demonstrate the technical skill required to capture the nuances of light and shadow on silk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/night-rain-at-the-double-shelf-stand-suzuki-harunobu\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNight Rain at the Double-Shelf Stand - Suzuki Harunobu — Suzuki Harunobu\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414163853647,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414163919183,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414164017487,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414164050255,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414164115791,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Letter-Box-and-Plum-Blossoms_Poster_CompositorV1_1786118727461.jpg?v=1786119343"},{"product_id":"table-and-writing-set-kubo-shunman","title":"Table and Writing Set - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, depicting a traditional Japanese writing set and table, rendered with the delicate precision of the surimono tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman depicts a refined arrangement of a scholar's writing implements. As a surimono, this work was produced for a private audience, often commissioned by poetry circles to accompany verses. The composition focuses on a low writing table, or bundai, adorned with a floral pattern. Resting upon it is a writing box, known as a suzuribako, which contains an inkstone and brushes. A water dropper sits nearby, completing the set of tools necessary for calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman employs a delicate line quality, characteristic of the surimono tradition, which allowed for the use of expensive pigments and sophisticated printing techniques like embossing. The colour palette remains restrained, relying on soft reds, muted blacks, and subtle greys to create a sense of quiet order. The inclusion of Japanese calligraphy in the upper portion of the print integrates the visual subject with the literary intent of the commission. The artist balances the physical objects with the negative space of the paper, creating a composition that feels both grounded and airy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurimono prints were highly prized for their technical quality and their role in the cultural life of Edo-period Japan. Unlike mass-produced commercial prints, these works reflect the specific tastes of the patrons who ordered them. Shunman, a polymath who was also a poet and painter, excelled in this format. His ability to render the texture of the lacquered surfaces and the softness of the paper demonstrates his technical mastery. This print offers a glimpse into the aesthetic values of the period, where the tools of literacy and artistic expression were elevated to the status of art objects themselves. The work remains a fine example of the intersection between poetry and visual design in early nineteenth-century Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414195081551,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414198096207,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414198128975,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414198161743,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414198194511,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414198227279,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414198260047,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414198292815,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414198325583,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414198358351,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414198391119,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Table-and-Writing-Set_Poster_CompositorV1_1786119223669.jpg?v=1786119713"},{"product_id":"picnic-outfit-kubo-shunman","title":"Picnic Outfit - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined surimono woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, depicting a still life of a picnic outfit, including a patterned kimono, cap, and fan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis surimono print by Kubo Shunman captures a still life arrangement of items associated with a leisure excursion. Shunman was a prominent figure in the Edo period, known for his refined approach to the surimono format, which were privately commissioned prints often exchanged among poets and connoisseurs. These works typically combine delicate imagery with kyoka, a form of humorous or witty poetry, which is visible here in the calligraphic script surrounding the objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features a shallow, pale yellow lacquer bowl containing a red-and-white spotted garment, likely a light kimono or wrap, alongside a small, dark-coloured cap. Beside the bowl sits a folded textile with a complex, repeating geometric and floral pattern, rendered in muted earth tones. The inclusion of a fan, partially visible on the left, adds to the narrative of a day spent outdoors. The artist employs a subtle colour palette, relying on soft reds, browns, and creams to create a sense of quiet elegance. The printing technique demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship associated with surimono, with fine lines and precise registration of the woodblocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman was not only a print designer but also a poet and painter, and his work often reflects the sophisticated tastes of the literary circles in which he moved. This print avoids the dramatic action often found in commercial ukiyo-e, opting instead for a contemplative, static arrangement that invites close inspection of the textures and patterns. The balance between the negative space of the paper and the detailed rendering of the fabric creates a harmonious visual experience. As a museum-grade reproduction, this print preserves the nuanced colour transitions and the delicate quality of the original paper, offering a window into the aesthetic sensibilities of early nineteenth-century Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414216905039,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414216970575,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414217068879,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414217101647,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414217167183,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Picnic-Outfit_Poster_CompositorV1_1786119495187.jpg?v=1786119813"},{"product_id":"shrine-under-a-big-pine-tree-kubo-shunman","title":"Shrine Under a Big Pine Tree - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA delicate woodblock print by Kubo Shunman featuring a Shinto shrine nestled beneath a large pine tree, complete with traditional Japanese calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman depicts a small Shinto shrine sheltered by the expansive canopy of a mature pine tree. Shunman, a prominent figure in the Edo period, was known for his contributions to the surimono genre. These prints were typically commissioned by poetry circles for private distribution, often combining visual imagery with kyoka, a form of humorous or satirical waka poetry. The calligraphy present in the upper portion of the composition integrates the text directly into the visual field, a hallmark of the surimono tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a high vantage point, allowing the viewer to observe the shrine and its surrounding grounds from above. The pine tree dominates the upper two-thirds of the image, its needles rendered with precise, repetitive marks that suggest density and texture. Below, the shrine structure is painted in a muted red, providing a contrast to the greens of the pine and the neutral tones of the paper. A torii gate stands at the entrance, marking the transition into the sacred space. The inclusion of stone lanterns and a small bridge indicates a carefully maintained garden setting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman demonstrates a refined approach to colour and line. The palette is restrained, relying on soft greens, earthy browns, and the deliberate application of red to draw the eye toward the architectural elements. The lines are thin and controlled, reflecting the technical precision required for high-quality woodblock printing. This work captures a moment of stillness, characteristic of the aesthetic preferences of the literati circles for whom Shunman produced his most celebrated designs. The balance between the natural form of the tree and the man-made structures creates a sense of harmony, typical of the period's interest in the relationship between architecture and the natural world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414211891535,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414231224655,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414231257423,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414231290191,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414231322959,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414231355727,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414231388495,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414231421263,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414231454031,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414231486799,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414231519567,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Shrine-Under-a-Big-Pine-Tree_Poster_CompositorV1_1786119660262.jpg?v=1786119951"},{"product_id":"koto-japanese-harp-and-sho-reed-organ-kubo-shunman","title":"Koto (Japanese Harp) and Sho (Reed Organ) - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Kubo Shunman featuring a koto and a sho, accompanied by traditional Japanese calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman belongs to the genre of surimono, which were privately commissioned prints often exchanged among members of poetry circles. Shunman was a prominent figure in the Edo period, known for his refined aesthetic and his dual career as an artist and a writer of kyoka, or comic verse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features two traditional Japanese musical instruments: a koto, a long zither with thirteen strings, and a sho, a mouth organ consisting of seventeen bamboo pipes. The koto is draped with a patterned textile, adding a decorative element to the arrangement. The placement of the instruments is deliberate, suggesting a quiet moment of musical preparation or the aftermath of a performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbove the instruments, the print includes calligraphic text. This is a common feature of surimono, where the visual image and the accompanying poetry are meant to be read together as a unified work. The calligraphy provides context, likely referencing the sounds or the cultural associations of the instruments depicted. The use of space is characteristic of the period, with the objects anchored at the bottom of the page, leaving ample room for the text to breathe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman's work is noted for its subtle colour palette and technical precision. The printing process for surimono often involved expensive techniques, such as embossing or the use of metallic pigments, to create a luxurious finish. This print demonstrates the artist's ability to balance representational accuracy with the requirements of a poetic composition. It offers a glimpse into the sophisticated social and artistic circles of late eighteenth and early nineteenth-century Japan, where music and literature were central to cultural life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414229324111,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414234239311,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414234272079,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414234304847,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414234337615,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414234370383,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414234403151,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414234435919,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414234468687,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414234501455,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414234534223,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Koto-Japanese-Harp-and-Sho-Reed-Organ-_Poster_CompositorV1_1786119717202.jpg?v=1786120050"},{"product_id":"biwa-japanese-lute-with-cover-kubo-shunman","title":"Biwa (Japanese Lute) with Cover - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, depicting a traditional Japanese biwa lute resting on a patterned textile cover, accompanied by elegant calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman depicts a biwa, a traditional Japanese short-necked lute, resting upon its protective textile cover. Shunman was a prominent figure in the Edo period, known for his contributions to the surimono genre. Surimono were privately commissioned prints, often distributed among members of poetry circles. They are characterised by high-quality paper, sophisticated printing techniques, and a focus on refined subject matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition centres on the instrument, rendered with precise, delicate lines that capture the texture of the wood and the tension of the strings. The biwa is partially draped in a fabric featuring a geometric pattern, which provides a visual contrast to the organic curves of the lute. The inclusion of calligraphic text at the top of the print is typical of the surimono format. These poems often relate to the imagery, creating a dialogue between the visual and the literary arts. The muted colour palette, dominated by soft earth tones and subtle reds, reflects the aesthetic preferences of the literati who commissioned such works.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman demonstrates a mastery of balance in this piece. The negative space surrounding the instrument allows the viewer to focus on the craftsmanship of the biwa and the intricate pattern of the cloth. The print serves as a record of the material culture of the period, documenting the design of musical instruments and the textiles used to protect them. As a work of art, it functions as an invitation to contemplate the quiet beauty of everyday objects. The print is an example of the technical skill involved in Japanese woodblock printing, where multiple blocks were used to achieve the subtle gradations of colour and the crisp definition of the patterns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414235779407,"sku":null,"price":37.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414239154511,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58414239187279,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414239220047,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414239252815,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Small Square (30x30 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414239285583,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414239318351,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414239351119,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Medium Square (40x40 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414239383887,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414239416655,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ Large Square (50x50 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58414239449423,"sku":null,"price":99.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Biwa-Japanese-Lute-with-Cover_Poster_CompositorV1_1786119908296.jpg?v=1786120191"},{"product_id":"lobster-and-vegetables-kubo-shunman","title":"Lobster and Vegetables - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined Japanese woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, featuring a spiny lobster and vegetables, typical of the elegant surimono tradition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman belongs to the genre of surimono, which were privately commissioned prints often exchanged among poets and artists. Shunman was a central figure in the development of these refined works, which frequently combined delicate imagery with kyoka, a form of humorous or satirical waka poetry. The composition features a spiny lobster positioned alongside lotus root and other vegetables, rendered with a focus on clean lines and subtle colour application.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print demonstrates the technical precision associated with the Edo period printing tradition. The artist employs a restrained palette, allowing the natural textures of the lobster shell and the fibrous quality of the vegetables to emerge through careful carving and registration. The inclusion of calligraphy adds a layer of literary context, typical of the surimono format, where the visual and textual elements function as a unified aesthetic experience. The negative space surrounding the subjects creates a sense of balance, drawing the eye to the specific details of the lobster's anatomy and the organic forms of the produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunman, who was also a poet, often integrated his own verses or those of his contemporaries into his designs. This work reflects the sophisticated tastes of the urban literati in late eighteenth and early nineteenth-century Japan. The print is not merely a depiction of food but a seasonal observation, likely associated with New Year celebrations or specific festive occasions where such items held symbolic weight. The paper quality and the soft ink tones are characteristic of the high-quality production standards maintained for these exclusive, limited-edition prints. By focusing on the interplay between the rigid structure of the lobster and the softer, more fluid lines of the vegetables, the artist achieves a composition that is both observational and decorative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/mountains-and-rivers-along-the-kisokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMountains and Rivers Along the Kisokaidō - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/illustration-of-the-empress-visiting-the-general-staff-headquarters-kobayashi-kiyochika\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eIllustration of the Empress Visiting the General Staff Headquarters - Kobayashi Kiyochika — Kobayashi Kiyochika\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414257045839,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414257111375,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414257209679,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414257242447,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414257307983,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Lobster-and-Vegetables_Poster_CompositorV1_1786120506933.jpg?v=1786120768"},{"product_id":"belt-and-fan-on-a-piece-of-cloth-kubo-shunman","title":"Belt and Fan on a Piece of Cloth - Kubo Shunman","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined surimono woodblock print by Kubo Shunman, featuring a still life of a belt and fan with accompanying calligraphy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Kubo Shunman belongs to the genre of surimono, which were privately commissioned works often exchanged among poets and artists. Shunman was a central figure in the development of this refined style, which prioritised subtle colour palettes and high-quality paper. The composition focuses on a still life arrangement: a folded belt and a fan resting upon a piece of fabric. The artist uses a restrained approach, allowing the negative space of the paper to define the form of the cloth. The lines are delicate, capturing the texture of the textile and the rigid structure of the fan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurimono prints were frequently produced for special occasions, such as the New Year, and often incorporated kyoka, a form of humorous or witty poetry. The calligraphy present in the upper portion of the print complements the visual elements, creating a balance between text and image. Shunman was known for his ability to integrate these literary components into his designs without overwhelming the subject matter. The colour palette is muted, relying on soft tones to convey a sense of quietude and elegance. This work demonstrates the technical precision typical of the Edo period, where the collaboration between the artist, carver, and printer resulted in a sophisticated final product. The absence of a busy background draws the viewer to the specific objects depicted, inviting a closer examination of the subtle variations in line and tone. As a piece of Japanese graphic art, it represents the intersection of visual aesthetics and literary culture, providing a glimpse into the refined tastes of the period's intellectual circles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/a-branch-of-plum-umegoe-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eA Branch of Plum (Umegoe) - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nissaka-travellers-on-a-steep-path-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNissaka: Travellers on a Steep Path - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Kubo Shunman","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414301806927,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414301872463,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414301970767,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58414302003535,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58414302069071,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Belt-and-Fan-on-a-Piece-of-Cloth_Poster_CompositorV1_1786120876528.jpg?v=1786121447"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.solisprints.com\/en-nz\/collections\/kubo-shunman.oembed","provider":"Solis Prints","version":"1.0","type":"link"}