The Drawing Manual: The Evergreens (Ehon Tokiwagusa) - Nishikawa Sukenobu

A monochrome woodblock print from the 1734 publication 'Ehon Tokiwagusa' by Nishikawa Sukenobu, depicting figures in a coastal setting.

This woodblock print originates from 'Ehon Tokiwagusa' (The Drawing Manual: The Evergreens), a significant publication by the Kyoto-based artist Nishikawa Sukenobu. Published in 1734, the work functions as both an aesthetic collection and a pedagogical tool for students of the Ukiyo-e style. Sukenobu was instrumental in the development of the illustrated book format, moving away from single-sheet prints to create cohesive narratives that integrated text and image.

The scene depicts a group of figures in traditional attire, walking near a shoreline. The composition relies on the artist's characteristic line work, which is fluid and precise. Sukenobu captures the movement of the fabric and the subtle gestures of the figures, demonstrating his mastery of the human form within the conventions of the period. The background features simplified, rhythmic lines to suggest the presence of water, a common technique in eighteenth-century Japanese printmaking to provide context without overwhelming the primary subjects.

Unlike the later, more colourful prints of the Edo period, this work is presented in monochrome. This choice directs the viewer's attention to the quality of the draughtsmanship and the balance of the composition. The figures are arranged in a gentle procession, their garments decorated with varied patterns that reflect the fashion of the time. As an example of a drawing manual, the print serves to instruct the reader on how to render drapery, posture, and spatial relationships. It remains a clear record of the artistic standards and social observations prevalent in Kyoto during the mid-Edo period. The print is a fine example of the technical skill required for woodblock carving, where every stroke of the brush is translated into a relief surface for printing.