Artwork
Untitled

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Isoda Koryūsai. It dates from 1765 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Untitled, a woodblock print by Isoda Koryūsai, dates to circa 1765 and is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. Executed in ink and color on paper, it depicts a serene riverside scene with two female figures.
Subject & Meaning
The print portrays two women engaged in a tranquil interaction by a river. One, dressed in a dark robe, stands with a fan and scroll, while the other, in a pink dress, kneels near the water, holding a small fish. The scene conveys a sense of calm and gentle engagement with nature.
Technique & Style
Koryūsai employed soft, muted colors and simple, expressive lines to capture the serene atmosphere. Notable is the treatment of water, rendered with smooth, fabric-like waves achieved through quick, expressive strokes, contrasting with potential cross-hatching techniques for texture.
History & Provenance
Created around 1765, the work is now held in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, though specific details of its provenance before acquisition are not provided here.
Context
This piece reflects the aesthetic of 18th-century Japanese woodblock printing, emphasizing harmony with nature and simple, yet expressive, composition. The use of everyday life scenes was common during this period.
Legacy
While specific influence or notable exhibitions of this piece are not detailed, it contributes to the broader understanding and appreciation of Isoda Koryūsai's work and the evolution of Japanese woodblock printing techniques in the 18th century.
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