The Silver World (Gin sekai)
Original title: The Silver World (Gin sekai) 銀世界
kurzbeschreibung
People gather around a large silver figure while snow lies on the trees and slopes nearby. This sheet comes from the illustrated book "The Silver World" (Gin sekai) by Kitagawa Utamaro, whose preface is dated 1790. It was produced as a polychrome woodblock print in ink and color on paper.
Description
Some of the figures sit, others kneel or stand, and their postures in Japanese dress suggest a ceremonial or festive gathering. They arrange themselves around the silver statue that forms the focal point of the sheet. Behind it stretches a snowy landscape with trees and mountains. Greys and whites dominate the image, while red and brown set accents on the garments. The brightness spreads evenly across the surface, as was usual for woodblock illustrations of the period.
Context
Woodblock books and prints were widely circulated in Japan during the Edo period. Utamaro was prized above all for his portrayals of women and scenes of urban life. By the time the book appeared in 1790 he had already made a name for himself and was recognized for his fine lines and elegant arrangements. "Gin sekai" may have been part of a series with seasonal or festive themes, as occurred often in Japanese art.
Impact
A calm emanates from this winter view, helped by the symmetrical distribution of the figures. Delicate greys meet strong red and brown accents on the garments. The image stays quiet and at the same time feels alive.
Technique
Several color blocks were used for the multicolor printing, producing the different tones. Clear lines and evenly filled areas of color are the result, as is characteristic of Japanese woodblock art. At 25.5 x 19 cm, the book format points to a handy publication intended for private use.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)