Artwork

姿見七人化粧|Naniwa Okita Admiring Herself in a Mirror

姿見七人化粧|Naniwa Okita Admiring Herself in a Mirror, by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1792
姿見七人化粧|Naniwa Okita Admiring Herself in a Mirror, by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1792

姿見七人化粧|Naniwa Okita Admiring Herself in a Mirror is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Kitagawa Utamaro. It dates from 1792 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Naniwa Okita Admiring Herself in a Mirror is a woodblock print by Kitagawa Utamaro, circa 1792, featuring a woman contemplating her reflection in a circular mirror, characterized by muted colors and intricate details.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene woman in a kimono, her face turned sideways, lost in quiet introspection as she examines her updo and reflection, conveying a sense of calm self-awareness.

Technique & Style

Utamaro employed a woodblock print technique with a mica ground, achieving a delicate, subtle aesthetic dominated by earthy tones such as brown and beige, emphasizing refinement and simplicity.

History & Provenance

Created around 1792, the work is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, highlighting its enduring presence in notable art repositories.

Context

This genre scene reflects 18th-century Japanese interests in everyday life, particularly the private moments of women, a common theme in Utamaro's oeuvre.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts are not broadly documented, the piece contributes to Utamaro's reputation for capturing the elegance of daily life in Edo-period Japan, influencing subsequent generations of artists in portraying intimate, domestic scenes.

Artist & collection