Artwork
Untitled

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Suzuki Harunobu. It dates from 1769 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created around 1769, this woodblock print by Suzuki Harunobu is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection. Executed with ink and color on paper, the work exemplifies the ukiyo-e tradition of the mid‑eighteenth century, employing the woodblock technique to produce a scene of everyday life.
Subject & Meaning
The image depicts two figures walking side by side beneath a bamboo‑framed umbrella. The left‑hand figure wears a dark coat edged in red and carries a small satchel, while the companion on the right holds a fan, dons a patterned robe and a headscarf. Tall trees and rain‑like lines in the background suggest a gentle drizzle, conveying a moment of shared travel in inclement weather.
Technique & Style
Harunobu’s composition relies on clean, flowing lines and a restrained palette of soft hues. The subtle cross‑hatching in the foliage and umbrella creates tonal variation without overwhelming detail, illustrating the artist’s skill in rendering atmosphere through minimalistic brushwork and careful line work typical of his later prints.
History & Provenance
The print, attributed to Harunobu’s mature period, entered the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition in the early twentieth century. Its presence in the museum underscores the growing Western interest in Japanese prints during that era, reflecting the broader diffusion of ukiyo‑e beyond Japan.
Artist & collection



















