Shunga
Updated:Shunga is a genre of Japanese erotic art that flourished during the Edo period (1603-1867). The term literally translates to "spring pictures," where "spring" is a euphemism for sex. Shunga typically consists of woodblock prints, paintings, or hand-scrolls depicting explicit sexual acts between couples, often in exaggerated or fantastical ways.
Additional Information
Shunga was not just pornography, but also served educational and cultural purposes. It was used by couples for sexual education, as wedding gifts, and even by samurai as a lucky charm for battle. Despite periodic attempts at censorship, shunga remained popular among all classes of Japanese society. The art form is known for its attention to detail, vibrant colors, and often humorous or imaginative scenarios.
Notable features of shunga include:
- Exaggerated genitalia, often depicted as much larger than realistic proportions
- Fully or partially clothed figures, emphasizing the sensuality of hidden skin
- Inclusion of everyday objects and settings, blending the erotic with the mundane
- Representation of a wide range of sexual practices and partners
Examples
The famous "The Dream of the Fisherman's Wife" by Hokusai, depicting a woman in an erotic encounter with octopuses
A shunga print showing a couple engaged in lovemaking, surrounded by elaborate textile patterns and everyday household items