Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Katsukawa Shunshō, ink, 1742
Untitled, by Katsukawa Shunshō, ink, 1742

Untitled is an ink print by the Baroque artist Katsukawa Shunshō. It dates from 1742 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This untitled woodblock print (nishiki-e) by Katsukawa Shunshō, dated 1742, is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. Executed in ink and color on paper, it depicts a figure in elaborate attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a man in a long, patterned robe with wide sleeves, holds a fan in one hand and a sword in the other, suggesting dual roles or attributes, possibly indicating a warrior or nobleman.

Technique & Style

The print features muted tones (browns, grays, soft pinks) with select bright accents, alongside sharp lines and nuanced shading to create depth, particularly in the fabric folds.

History & Provenance

Created in 1742 by Katsukawa Shunshō, the print is now housed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Context

This work reflects Shunshō's influence on Japanese theater prints, a genre he significantly impacted during his career.

Artist & collection

Artist

Katsukawa Shunshō

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