Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Kitao Shigemasa, ink, 1813
Untitled, by Kitao Shigemasa, ink, 1813

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Kitao Shigemasa. It dates from 1813 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a woodblock print created by Kitao Shigemasa in 1813, held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts early spring, with bare branches adorned with small red buds and pale blossoms, accompanied by perched birds. Japanese poetry in the center adds a layer of meaning to the serene scene, capturing the quiet beauty of the season's onset.

Technique & Style

Delicate yet precise lines characterize the print, with tiny strokes building up leaves and flowers. The use of fine lines, potentially including cross-hatching techniques, creates depth and texture, while a small gold seal is placed at the top right corner.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Kitao Shigemasa

Artist

Kitao Shigemasa

Kitao Shigemasa (北尾 重政; 1739 – 8 March 1820) was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist from Edo.