Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Totoya Hokkei, ink, 1814
Untitled, by Totoya Hokkei, ink, 1814

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Totoya Hokkei. It dates from 1814 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a woodblock print (surimono) by Japanese artist Totoya Hokkei, dated to 1814. Executed in ink and color on paper, the work is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a dog, predominantly white with black stripes on its back and head, wearing a red kimono adorned with white flowers. The animal holds a multicolored ball (featuring red, white, and yellow stripes) in its mouth, emphasizing playful and whimsical elements.

Technique & Style

Characterized by bold lines and vibrant, flat colors, the print showcases traditional woodblock techniques. The emphasis on expressive details, such as the dog's round eyes and fluffy tail, suggests a blend of folkloric simplicity with nuanced observation.

History & Provenance

Created in 1814, the surimono is attributed to Totoya Hokkei. Its current location is The Metropolitan Museum of Art, though specific acquisition details are not provided here.

Context

While rooted in Japanese woodblock printmaking traditions, the work's focus on sentimental, intimate moments and expressive depiction of a non-human subject might evoke parallels with broader Romantic-era sensibilities, though it remains distinctly Japanese in execution.

Artist & collection