Artwork

仲の町の牡丹|The Peony Show

仲の町の牡丹|The Peony Show, by Torii Kiyonaga, ink, 1790
仲の町の牡丹|The Peony Show, by Torii Kiyonaga, ink, 1790

仲の町の牡丹|The Peony Show is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Torii Kiyonaga. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Peony Show, a triptych of woodblock prints by Torii Kiyonaga, dates to circa 1790. Composed of ink and color on paper, the work is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a lively scene of people in vibrant robes walking under a wooden-beamed roof, accompanied by children. The predominant motif is the peony, prominently featured in pots along walls, in hands, and within baskets, reflecting the artist's penchant for dense composition.

Technique & Style

Characterized by soft, muted tones of green, red, and cream, the piece exemplifies Kiyonaga's approach to color. The woodblock technique allows for the intricate, layered depiction of textures and patterns evident in the robes, architecture, and flora.

History & Provenance

Created in the late 18th century, the exact circumstances of its creation are not detailed here, but it is known to be in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Context

Part of Kiyonaga's oeuvre of busy street scenes, this work can be contextualized within his broader practice of capturing urban life, though specific historical or cultural events it might reference are not highlighted in available information.

Legacy

While specific influences or subsequent artistic impacts of 'The Peony Show' are not provided, as part of Kiyonaga's body of work, it contributes to the understanding and appreciation of late Edo period woodblock printing.

Artist & collection