A Giant Radish, Chrysanthemums, and Ferns

This is a specific type of print known as a surimono, which means “something printed.” Prints of this type were produced on thicker paper than standard woodblock prints, and they were never sold—only privately commissioned. As a result, they did not carry the censorship or publisher’s seals required on commercial prints. Surimono were used among small groups of like-minded intellectuals as invitations or announcements and to celebrate the new year or other special events.