Artwork

忠臣蔵五段目|A Woman Snatching a Bag of Sweetmeats from Her MotHer

忠臣蔵五段目|A Woman Snatching a Bag of Sweetmeats from Her MotHer, by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1780
忠臣蔵五段目|A Woman Snatching a Bag of Sweetmeats from Her MotHer, by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1780

忠臣蔵五段目|A Woman Snatching a Bag of Sweetmeats from Her MotHer is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Kitagawa Utamaro. It dates from 1780 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This woodblock print, created by Kitagawa Utamaro around 1780, depicts a serene scene of two women interacting. The work is part of a series and is executed in ink and color on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows a kneeling woman attempting to take a bag from another woman, who stands wearing a dark robe and tall black hat. A smaller inset scene features a man with a sword carrying a child on his back.

Technique & Style

Utamaro's work is characterized by traditional Japanese robes in soft colors and simple hairstyles. The background features a subtle garden scene and a scroll with Japanese text, showcasing the artist's attention to detail and composition.

History & Provenance

The print is now held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, indicating its significance and preservation.

Artist & collection