There is an image that men and women can enjoy watching Shunga, but in fact there are many other roles! For example, it seems to have served as a reference plate for brides. It is said that some of the finest of the paintings were made as marriage tools for wealthy and high-class homes.
Essential items for newlyweds
In the middle of the Edo period, some wedding specifications were used. It was easy to understand what the bride and groom should be doing in marriage and how they should behave in their newly married life, so it was a must-read for men and women who refrain from marriage.
If you're a girl from traditional conservative family with little love experience, you'll need a book like this. It seems that the methods of mating and bathing tips were introduced. What should we do with each other? Study with such a glossy book so that you do not have to worry.
Was there such a role?
In addition, he also played a role in fire protection. Why is Shunga a fire extinguisher? I guess. It seems that the fire occurred in Kyoto during the Meiwa period (1764-72). The fire was burning throughout the city, leaving only one warehouse burnt. When I opened the warehouse after the fire was extinguished, there was a small box containing a Shunga by Tsukioka Settei. Taking advantage of this, Tsukioka Settei's spring paintings were reputed for having a fire-blown effect, and were so popular that the people of Kyoto bought it and the price grew tenfold.
Also effective for taking exams
The third role is a magic to win. When a mote man in the Heian period drew a picture of the bedroom and put it in picture matching, the Shunga was noticed and won brilliantly. Then, Shunga is also called "Katsue". Isn't Shunga drawing attention as an auspicious thing?
At that time, Shunga wasn't just a recreational role, but also a role for honeymooners, a fire fighter, and a role for testing. Indispensable for people, that was Shunga.
more information at https://shunga-prints.com