Artwork

Onono Komachi|Parrot Komachi

Onono Komachi|Parrot Komachi, by Chôbunsai Eishi, ink, 1788
Onono Komachi|Parrot Komachi, by Chôbunsai Eishi, ink, 1788

Onono Komachi|Parrot Komachi is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Chôbunsai Eishi. It dates from 1788 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Onono Komachi, also known as Parrot Komachi, is a woodblock print created by Chōbunsai Eishi around 1788.

About this work

Overview

Onono Komachi, also known as Parrot Komachi, is a woodblock print created by Chōbunsai Eishi around 1788. It is an example of ukiyo-e, a style of Japanese art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts three women in traditional robes standing outdoors by a river, with distant buildings and trees in the background. Two women face each other, while the third looks away, holding a fan. The scene is calm and dreamy, with the women's boldly patterned clothing adding to the serene atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Eishi used ink and color on paper to create the print, achieving smooth shading, particularly on the robes. The figures are drawn with clean lines and soft shadows, characteristic of Eishi's Bijin-ga style, known for tall, thin, and graceful portraits.

History & Provenance

Chōbunsai Eishi was born into a samurai family and initially employed by the Shogunate before pursuing a career in art. His family was part of the Fujiwara clan and held a significant stipend, indicating their wealth and status.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Chôbunsai Eishi

Artist

Chôbunsai Eishi

Chōbunsai Eishi (鳥文斎 栄之; 1756–1829) was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist. His last name was Hosoda (細田). His first name was Tokitomi (時富). His common name was Taminosuke (民之丞) and later Yasaburo (弥三郎). Pupil of Kano Eisen'in…