Writing Table by the Light of a Lantern, Totoya Hokkei, c. 1832
nishikie, with metallic pigments, h 211mm × w 181mm Catalogue entry
This surimono is inspired by the book at the upper right: the Japanese classic Essays in Idleness written by the poet-philosopher Kenko in the 14th century. The passage reads that while tidying his writing table in the quiet of the night, memories of the past and of deceased friends lead Kenko to reflect on how life is fleeting while personal belongings are lasting
