Shijo School Collection

Modern Beauty in a Snowstorm, 19th century. Creator: Kikugawa Eizan
Modern Beauty in a Snowstorm, 19th century

Woman by a Lantern, 1810s. Creator: Kikugawa Eizan
Woman by a Lantern, 1810s. From Elegant Women Compared

Hana no Hito of Ogiya, 1809-1813. Creator: Kikugawa Eizan
Hana no Hito of Ogiya, 1809-1813

The Theater District in Sakai-cho (Sakai cho shibai), from the "Fashionable Eight... c. 1824/29
The Theater District in Sakai-cho (Sakai cho shibai), from the "Fashionable Eight Views of the Eastern Capital (Furyu Toto hakkei)", Japan, c. 1824/29

Benzaiten Shrine at Shinobugaoka (Shinobugaoka Benzaiten), from the "Fashionable... c. 1824/29
Benzaiten Shrine at Shinobugaoka (Shinobugaoka Benzaiten), from the "Fashionable Eight Views of the Eastern Capital (Furyu Toto hakkei)", Japan, c. 1824/29

Enjoying the Evening Cool at Ryogoku Bridge (Ryogokubashi noryo), from the... early 19th century
Enjoying the Evening Cool at Ryogoku Bridge (Ryogokubashi noryo), from the series "Fashionable Eight Views of Edo (Furyu Edo hakkei)", Japan, early 19th century

The Cherry Blossoms of Mikawa, 19th century, (1886). Artist: Wilhelm Greve
The Cherry Blossoms of Mikawa, 19th century, (1886). Shijo School. From a painting on silk by Ota Kinkin, Shijo School. Found in the collection of the British Museum

Shoki and the Demons, c1880, (1886). Artist: Wilhelm Greve
Shoki and the Demons, c1880, (1886). Shijo School. From a print on silk by Shibata Zeshin. Found in the collection of the British Museum

Cranes, c1840 (1886). Artist: Wilhelm Greve
Cranes, c1840 (1886). Shijo School. From a painting on silk by Mori Ippo. A print from The Pictorial Arts of Japan, by William Anderson, Sampson Low, Marston, Searle, & Rivington, London, 1886

Shoki and the Demons, c1880 (1886). Artist: Wilhelm Greve
Shoki and the Demons, c1880 (1886). Shijo School. From a print on silk by Shibata Zeshin. Found in the collection of the British Museum

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Shijo school is a traditional form of Japanese poetry that dates back to the 17th century. Known for its simplicity and elegance, shijo poems typically consist of three lines with a syllable count of 5-7-5. This poetic form often explores themes of nature, love, and everyday life in a concise and evocative manner. The beauty of shijo lies in its ability to capture complex emotions and vivid imagery within a few short lines. Poets must carefully choose their words to convey deep meaning while adhering to the strict syllable structure. The result is a powerful yet delicate expression of thoughts and feelings. Studying shijo can be both challenging and rewarding, as it requires precision in language and an understanding of traditional Japanese aesthetics. By mastering this poetic form, students can develop their creativity, hone their writing skills, and gain insight into the rich literary heritage of Japan. Whether you are new to poetry or an experienced writer looking to expand your repertoire, exploring the world can offer a unique perspective on the art of verse. Immerse yourself in this ancient tradition and discover the beauty that lies within its simple yet profound verses.