Artwork

六玉川 「千鳥の玉川 陸奥名所」|“The Jewel River of Plovers, a Famous Place in Mutsu Province,” from the series Six Jewel Rivers (Mu Tamagawa: Chidori no Tamagawa, Mutsu meisho)

六玉川 「千鳥の玉川 陸奥名所」|“The Jewel River of Plovers, a Famous Place in Mutsu Province,” from the series Six Jewel Rivers (Mu Tamagawa: Chidori no Tamagawa, Mutsu meisho), by Suzuki Harunobu, ink, 1748
六玉川 「千鳥の玉川 陸奥名所」|“The Jewel River of Plovers, a Famous Place in Mutsu Province,” from the series Six Jewel Rivers (Mu Tamagawa: Chidori no Tamagawa, Mutsu meisho), by Suzuki Harunobu, ink, 1748

六玉川 「千鳥の玉川 陸奥名所」|“The Jewel River of Plovers, a Famous Place in Mutsu Province,” from the series Six Jewel Rivers (Mu Tamagawa: Chidori no Tamagawa, Mutsu meisho) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Suzuki Harunobu. It dates from 1748 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This woodblock print, 'The Jewel River of Plovers, a Famous Place in Mutsu Province,' is part of the series Six Jewel Rivers by Suzuki Harunobu. Created using ink and color on paper, it depicts a serene scene.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows a woman in a striped kimono and a boy in a plaid robe by a river. The woman holds a black box and a striped cloth, while the boy grasps a cup. The scene is set against a backdrop of flying birds, river waves, and shore plants, evoking a peaceful atmosphere.

Technique & Style

The dominant colors are beige, gray, and black, with accents of yellow and white. The use of woodblock printing allows for subtle color gradations and textures, contributing to the overall calm mood.

History & Provenance

Created in 1748, this print is held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Artist & collection