Artwork

Man and Woman

Man and Woman, by Kitagawa Utamaro, 1780
Man and Woman, by Kitagawa Utamaro, 1780

Man and Woman is a print by the Romanticist artist Kitagawa Utamaro. It dates from 1780 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Man and Woman, a print by Kitagawa Utamaro from 1780, is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. The work captures a serene, intimate scene between two figures.

Subject & Meaning

A man gently plays a flute while a woman stands beside him, her head inclined towards him, conveying a sense of connection and quiet intimacy through their subtle expressions.

Technique & Style

Characterized by muted tones, including grays, pinks, and beige, the print features delicate lines and soft brushstrokes, evoking a tranquil atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created in 1780 by Kitagawa Utamaro, the print's history prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here.

Context

Reflective of late 18th-century Japanese aesthetics, the piece aligns with the softer, more intimate themes found in ukiyo-e prints of the time.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable exhibitions are not highlighted, the work remains a representative example of Utamaro's contribution to the ukiyo-e genre.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.