Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is an ink print by the Baroque artist Kaigetsudō Dohan. It dates from 1714 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created around 1714 by Kaigetsudō Dohan, this untitled monochrome woodblock print (sumizuri-e) on paper is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. It portrays a traditionally dressed Japanese man set against a plain background, rendered entirely in black and white ink.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is a Japanese man in traditional attire, with his hair tied back in a bun and holding a decorated fan. The image conveys a sense of serene, everyday elegance, though the specific context or narrative behind the scene is not explicitly defined.
Technique & Style
Executed in sumizuri-e, a technique limiting the print to various shades of black ink, the work showcases intricate details in the subject's clothing patterns and the fan's design. The plain background contrasts with the textured, layered depiction of the man's attire and accessories.
History & Provenance
Dating to circa 1714, this print is attributed to Kaigetsudō Dohan. Currently, it is housed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, though detailed provenance history prior to its acquisition is not provided here.
Context
This work reflects the aesthetic preferences of early 18th-century Japan, where traditional dress and simple, yet nuanced, compositions were prevalent in woodblock prints. The use of sumizuri-e underscores the artist's ability to convey depth and detail through monochrome.
Artist & collection
