Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Kubo Shunman, ink, 1794
Untitled, by Kubo Shunman, ink, 1794

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Kubo Shunman. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled, a woodblock print (surimono) by Kubo Shunman, dates to 1794 and is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. Executed in ink and color on paper, the work presents a serene domestic scene.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a tranquil moment in a Japanese home, featuring a peacock feather-patterned fan on a table, a glimpsed garden, and labeled storage boxes. These elements subtly suggest a connection to a seasonal tradition or ritual.

Technique & Style

Kubo Shunman employed ink and color to achieve depth and texture. The composition likely utilizes techniques such as cross-hatching to build nuanced shadows, enhancing the overall sense of calm and dimensionality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1794, the print is now housed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, with its provenance prior to acquisition not detailed here.

Context

As a surimono, this print was likely produced in a limited edition for private distribution, possibly among social or literary circles, reflecting the artist's engagement with intimate, domestic themes.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable exhibitions of this piece are not highlighted, it contributes to the broader understanding of Kubo Shunman's oeuvre and 18th-century Japanese woodblock printing techniques.

Artist & collection