オウミ ヒノ ノ ショウカ ニ オケル ショガ コレクション ケイセイ ト カツヨウ ノ キロク マトマリ ノ アル シリョウ グン ノ カチ

Hino Town in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its historical prosperity. It produced many Omi Hino merchants during the Edo to Meiji periods. This study examines the formation and use of calligraphy and painting collections in modern merchant households, focusing on a catalog inherited by a specific Hino family. The catalog, featuring detailed illustrations and information, reflects the family head’s deep interest in calligraphy and painting.Previous research has primarily focused on collections of shoguns, daimyo families, or the affluent classes, while the characteristics of calligraphy and painting collections used in merchant households for annual events and receptions remain unclear. Organization and analysis of the catalog’s information reveal that the artists of the calligraphy and paintings maintained distinct connections with the local area. Furthermore, it is possible to discern which works were selected for business receptions and annual events, and how they were integrated into merchant life.In modern times, lifestyle changes have complicated the maintenance of collections with familial and regional value. To preserve these collections, it is crucial to highlight their social and cultural significance, connections to local history, rather than focusing solely on individual artwork appraisals or monetary value. By examining how calligraphy and paintings were displayed, valued, and integrated into social practices, this study aims to convey the importance of regional cultural assets to future generations and ensure their preservation within their original contexts.