Artwork

歌川五雲亭貞秀画『横浜異人商館写真之図』|Foreign Business Establishment in Yokohama (Yokohama ijin shōkan shashin no zu)

歌川五雲亭貞秀画『横浜異人商館写真之図』|Foreign Business Establishment in Yokohama (Yokohama ijin shōkan shashin no zu) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Utagawa (Gountei) Sadahide. It dates from 1861 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This triptych woodblock print, created in 1861 by Utagawa Sadahide, is titled 'Foreign Business Establishment in Yokohama'.

About this work

Overview

This triptych woodblock print, created in 1861 by Utagawa Sadahide, is titled 'Foreign Business Establishment in Yokohama'. It is a vibrant representation of a scene in Yokohama, executed in ink and color on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a lively scene in front of a building, featuring people in various attire, including traditional Japanese clothing and Western dress, as well as a dog. The composition is divided across three panels, each with distinct figures and activities.

Technique & Style

The work showcases the artist's skill with nishiki-e, a style of multicolored woodblock printing. The use of intricate patterns and a range of colors creates a visually striking image, characteristic of Sadahide's detailed and colorful work.

Artist & collection

Artist

Utagawa (Gountei) Sadahide

Utagawa Sadahide , also known as Gountei Sadahide, was a Japanese artist best known for his prints in the ukiyo-e style as a member of the Utagawa school.