Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Takashima Chiharu, ink, 1820
Untitled, by Takashima Chiharu, ink, 1820

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Takashima Chiharu. It dates from 1820 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This untitled woodblock print (surimono) by Takashima Chiharu, dating to circa 1820, is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection. Executed in ink and color on paper, it features a solitary figure adorned in distinctive attire.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a person dressed in a vibrant blue robe with gold buttons and red accents, topped by a tall black hat. They stand on a green cloth, holding a fan with a patterned design resembling a small window or mirror, potentially hinting at the scene's deeper significance. Surrounding Japanese text likely provides contextual or narrative meaning.

Technique & Style

Characterized by a plain background, the print emphasizes the vibrant colors of the figure's attire, creating a striking visual contrast. The use of surimono, a type of woodblock print, allowed for intricate details, such as the fan's design and the textured suggestion of the green cloth.

History & Provenance

Created around 1820 by Takashima Chiharu, the print's history prior to its acquisition by The Metropolitan Museum of Art is not detailed here. Its current holdings at the museum ensure its preservation and study.

Context

As a surimono from the early 19th century, this print reflects the artistic trends of its time, possibly catering to a more elite audience due to the surimono's association with higher-quality, often more experimental prints.

Legacy

While specific influence or widespread recognition of this particular piece is not highlighted, it contributes to the broader understanding and appreciation of 19th-century Japanese woodblock printing techniques and aesthetics within The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collections.

Artist & collection