Artwork

喜多川歌麿画 御所車見立て行列|Courtesans Imitating a Court Procession

喜多川歌麿画 御所車見立て行列|Courtesans Imitating a Court Procession, by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1806
喜多川歌麿画 御所車見立て行列|Courtesans Imitating a Court Procession, by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1806

喜多川歌麿画 御所車見立て行列|Courtesans Imitating a Court Procession is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Kitagawa Utamaro. It dates from 1806 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Courtesans Imitating a Court Procession is a woodblock print triptych by Kitagawa Utamaro, dated to 1806. The work is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a procession of courtesans dressed in elaborate, colorful robes and tall hats, mimicking a traditional court procession. The scene includes various props such as umbrellas, fans, musical instruments, a bow and arrow, and a large wheel, suggesting a playful, ceremonial atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Utamaro employed soft lines, gentle shading, and vibrant colors (notably pinks, greens, and golds) to create a smooth, dynamic visual effect. The women's faces are rendered as calm and expressive despite the bustling scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1806, the triptych is now held in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Context

This work reflects Utamaro's focus on genre scenes, particularly those involving the lives of courtesans, a common subject in ukiyo-e woodblock prints of the Edo period.

Legacy

While specific legacy details are not provided, the work's inclusion in a major museum collection and its representation of Utamaro's style contribute to its ongoing study and appreciation within the context of Japanese ukiyo-e art.

Artist & collection