Japanese Bush Warbler
Original title: Japanese Bush Warbler
kurzbeschreibung
A seated woman holds a feather, while a standing companion looks on. This subject comes from Kitagawa Utamaro and is dated 1754–1806. It is a woodblock print, printed with ink and color on paper. Both figures appear in traditional Japanese dress within an interior.
Description
On a low stool sits the left of the two women, holding a feather and directing her gaze toward a basket. The woman on the right remains standing and watches her. Floral patterns cover the elaborate garments, along with traditional hair ornaments. Plants and parts of a wooden structure emerge behind the figures.
Context
Utamaro is one of the defining artists of Edo-period Japanese woodblock printing and became known above all for his depictions of women. Ukiyo-e prints were widespread in Japan at that time and took up urban life as well as contemporary ideals of beauty. Exactly how this sheet was made is not recorded; comparable works often appeared within series.
Impact
Calm and intimacy emanate from this print, carried by a balanced layout and restrained colors. The carefully worked costumes and the interior reveal the craftsmanship with which Utamaro worked, and invite a longer look.
Technique
Ink and color were transferred to paper using the woodblock technique. During the Edo period this method was common practice in Japan; each color area required its own woodblock. Subdued tones and delicate lines correspond to Utamaro's usual hand.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)