Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Katsukawa Shunshō, ink, 1771
Untitled, by Katsukawa Shunshō, ink, 1771

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Katsukawa Shunshō. It dates from 1771 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

If you're interested in learning more about Japanese art, you might want to check out the work of artist Katsukawa Shunshō.

This painting shows a man sitting on a bench, wearing a striped robe and sandals. He has a sword at his side and is looking down at his foot. The background is a red wall with a window.

The man's robe is yellow and red, and he has a black belt around his waist. His hair is pulled back, and he has a serious expression on his face. The sword is decorated with a design on the handle.

The painting is a woodblock print, made with ink and color on paper. It's a great example of Japanese art from the 18th century. If you're interested in learning more about Japanese art, you might want to check out the work of artist Katsukawa Shunshō.

Overview

This untitled woodblock print, created by Katsukawa Shunshō around 1771, is a representative example of 18th-century Japanese art. It is a nishiki-e print made with ink and color on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a seated man wearing a striped robe and sandals, with a sword at his side. He appears contemplative, gazing down at his foot. The red wall background and window add to the scene's context, suggesting a moment of quiet introspection.

Technique & Style

The print showcases the nishiki-e technique, characterized by the use of multiple colors and intricate designs. The artist's use of yellow, red, and black hues creates a visually striking image, with the decorated sword handle adding to the overall detail.

History & Provenance

The print is now held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, indicating its significance in the art historical canon.

Artist & collection

Artist

Katsukawa Shunshō

Katsukawa Shunshō spent his life in Edo (now Tokyo), where the city’s teahouses and theaters buzzed with energy.