Who painted 道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi?

道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi was painted by Utagawa Hiroshige in 1840.

Where can I see 道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi?

道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is 道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi?

道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi

Utagawa Hiroshige , 1840

道中膝栗毛|The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Utagawa Hiroshige. It dates from 1840 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This monochrome woodblock print, created by Utagawa Hiroshige around 1840, is titled 'The Practical Jokers Yajirobei and Kitahachi'. It is a humorous scene featuring figures in traditional Japanese attire.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts five men on a rural path, one holding a sign with Japanese characters. Their lively interaction suggests a comedic narrative, reflecting Hiroshige's exploration of humor in his work.

Technique & Style

Executed in ink on paper, the print showcases Hiroshige's use of bold lines and minimal shading to convey expression and action. The monochrome style adds simplicity and elegance, focusing attention on the characters.

Artist & collection

Artist

Utagawa Hiroshige

Utagawa Hiroshige (歌川広重) or Andō Hiroshige (安藤広重), born Andō Tokutarō (安藤徳太郎; 1797 – 12 October 1858), was a Japanese ukiyo-e artist, considered the last great master of that tradition.