Emakimono 絵巻

Japanese Emakimono: Unfolding Narratives in Painted Scrolls

日本の絵巻 (emakimono): 絵巻物による物語の展開

Throughout the rich history of Japanese art, emakimono, or painted scrolls, have played a significant role in conveying narratives and capturing the imagination of viewers. Emakimono are long, horizontal scrolls that unfurl to reveal a continuous pictorial narrative. These exquisite artworks serve as windows into the vibrant world of Japanese culture, depicting historical events, mythical tales, religious teachings, and everyday life scenes.

絵巻物 (emakimono), or painted scrolls, have been an integral part of Japanese art for centuries. These scrolls, known for their unique format, tell stories through a series of images that gradually unfold as the scroll is opened. Emakimono offer a glimpse into various aspects of Japanese culture, including history, mythology, religion, and daily life.

The origins of emakimono can be traced back to ancient China, where the concept of narrative handscrolls was born. From China, this artistic tradition found its way to Japan during the Heian period (794-1185), along with other cultural and intellectual influences. The Japanese embraced the art form and infused it with their unique sensibilities, giving birth to a distinct style of emakimono. In Japan, emakimono flourished and developed into a distinct art form, blending Chinese techniques with Japanese aesthetics.

One of the most renowned examples of Japanese emakimono is the "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tale of Genji" (源氏物語絵巻, Genji Monogatari Emaki). Created in the 12th century, these scrolls depict scenes from Murasaki Shikibu's classic novel, "The Tale of Genji." With delicate brushwork and intricate details, the scrolls transport viewers into the romantic world of courtly life during the Heian period. Each scene unfolds seamlessly, revealing the complex relationships, courtly rituals, and poetic exchanges of the characters.

Another famous example is "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tale of Genji" (源氏物語絵巻, Genji Monogatari Emaki). Created in the 12th century, these scrolls depict scenes from Murasaki Shikibu's masterpiece, "The Tale of Genji." Through meticulous brushwork and intricate details, the scrolls offer a glimpse into the refined world of the Heian court. Each scene reveals the intricate relationships, courtly customs, and poetic exchanges of the novel's characters.

Emakimono were not limited to literary adaptations. They were also used to illustrate historical events and legends. For instance, the "Illustrated Scrolls of the Mongol Invasions" (蒙古襲来絵詞絵巻, Mōko Shūrai Ekotoba) chronicle the attempts by the Mongol Empire to invade Japan in the 13th century. These scrolls depict battles at sea, warriors in combat, and the divine intervention believed to have saved Japan from the invaders. The scrolls not only serve as historical records but also captivate viewers with their dynamic compositions and vivid storytelling.

Religious themes also found expression in emakimono. Buddhist sutras and legends were often illustrated in scroll format, combining text and images to convey spiritual teachings. The "Illustrated Scroll of the Lotus Sutra" (法華経絵詞絵巻, Hokekyō Ekotoba) is a remarkable example of religious emakimono. It depicts scenes from the Lotus Sutra, one of the most important scriptures in Mahayana Buddhism. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the illustrations enhance the spiritual significance of the text, inviting viewers into a contemplative journey.

Emakimono were not mere static images; they were meant to be experienced and appreciated in a dynamic way. The act of unrolling the scroll gradually revealed the narrative, allowing the viewer to engage with the story at their own pace. As each section ofthe scroll was unveiled, the viewer could immerse themselves in the visual journey, moving from one scene to another in a continuous flow. This interactive experience created a sense of connection with the story, as if the viewer was actively participating in its unfolding.

In addition to the well-known scrolls mentioned above, there are many other remarkable emakimono that deserve recognition. The "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tales of Ise" (伊勢物語絵巻, Ise Monogatari Emaki) bring to life the poetic collection attributed to Ariwara no Narihira. These scrolls depict various episodes from the romantic encounters and natural landscapes described in the famous anthology. Through delicate brushwork and evocative compositions, the scrolls capture the essence of courtly love and the beauty of nature.

The "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tales of Ise" (伊勢物語絵巻, Ise Monogatari Emaki) is another notable example of emakimono. This series of scrolls illustrates episodes from the "Tales of Ise," a renowned collection of poetic stories attributed to Ariwara no Narihira. The scrolls depict scenes of romantic encounters, nature, and courtly life, evoking the emotional depth and aesthetic sensibilities of the literary work.

Another noteworthy emakimono is the "Illustrated Scroll of the Kasuga Deities" (春日神事絵巻, Kasuga Jinji Emaki), which portrays the rituals and mythology surrounding the Kasuga Shrine in Nara. This scroll captures the solemnity and grandeur of Shinto ceremonies, depicting various deities, sacred dances, and worshipers in intricate detail. The scroll serves as a valuable historical and cultural document, offering insights into ancient religious practices.

The "Illustrated Scroll of the Kasuga Deities" (春日神事絵巻, Kasuga Jinji Emaki) is another remarkable emakimono. This scroll portrays the rituals and mythology associated with the Kasuga Shrine in Nara. It depicts various deities, sacred dances, and devotees, capturing the essence of Shinto ceremonies and the spiritual significance of the shrine.

Other notable emakimono include the "Illustrated Scroll of Battles and Warriors" (合戦絵巻, Kassen Emaki), which depicts historical battles and military exploits, and the "Illustrated Scroll of the Tale of Heiji" (平治物語絵巻, Heiji Monogatari Emaki), which narrates the conflict between the Taira and Minamoto clans during the late Heian period. These scrolls not only showcase the artistic skills of their creators but also provide valuable insights into Japan's military history and political struggles.


the scrolls played a crucial role in preserving and transmitting cultural and historical knowledge. They served as educational tools, allowing future generations to learn about significant events, literary works, and religious teachings. These scrolls were treasured possessions, carefully preserved by noble families, temples, and shrines, ensuring that the stories and traditions they depicted would endure.

In conclusion, emakimono are a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Japan. These painted scrolls captivate viewers with their vivid storytelling, intricate details, and profound narratives. They provide a glimpse into the diverse aspects of Japanese history, literature, religion, and daily life. They do not only serve as beautiful works of art but also as valuable resources for understanding the social, political, and spiritual dimensions of Japan's past. Their enduring beauty and enduring significance continue to captivate audiences around the world, making emakimono a cherished part of Japan's artistic legacy.

Reference:

  1. "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tale of Genji." Kyoto National Museum. http://www.kyohaku.go.jp/eng/stories/kitano/index.html.
  2. "Illustrated Scrolls of the Mongol Invasions." Tokyo National Museum. https://www.tnm.jp/modules/r_exhibition/index.php?controller=item_detail&exhbit_id=2918.
  3. "Illustrated Scroll of the Lotus Sutra." Kyoto National Museum. http://www.kyohaku.go.jp/eng/stories/hokke/index.html.
  4. "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tales of Ise." Saga City Matsura Historical and Cultural Museum. http://www.city.saga.lg.jp/main/5362.html.
  5. "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tales of Ise." Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art. https://www.bunpaku.or.jp/exhi_special/mongol_ekotoba/.
  6. "Illustrated Scroll of the Kasuga Deities." Tokyo National Museum. https://www.tnm.jp/modules/r_exhibition/index.php?controller=item_detail&exhbit_id=2869.
  7. "Illustrated Scrolls of the Tale of Genji." National Diet Library Digital Collections. https://dl.ndl.go.jp/info:ndljp/pid/1237671/51.
  8. "Illustrated Scrolls of the Mongol Invasions." National Diet Library Digital Collections. https://dl.ndl.go.jp/info:ndljp/pid/780222/36.
  9. "Illustrated Scroll of the Lotus Sutra." National Diet Library Digital Collections. https://dl.ndl.go.jp/info:ndljp/pid/780228/39.
  10. "Illustrated Scroll of Battles and Warriors." Art Museum Online Collection. https://search.artmuseums.go.jp/gazou.php?id=12511.