Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, ink, 1850
Untitled, by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, ink, 1850

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This untitled woodblock print, created by Utagawa Kuniyoshi in 1850, is a mythological scene executed in ink and color on paper. It is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene indoor scene featuring a central elephant, calmly interacting with a kneeling man in elaborate robes and a standing boy in simpler attire. The elephant's prominence suggests a symbolic or honored role.

Technique & Style

Characterized by bold colors and sharp lines, the print showcases Kuniyoshi's mastery of woodblock techniques. The vibrant red and blue backgrounds with gold patterns add depth and opulence to the interior setting.

History & Provenance

Created in 1850 by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, the print is now housed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it is available for public viewing.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Artist

Utagawa Kuniyoshi

Kuniyoshi grew up in old Tokyo when the city was still called Edo. His dad ran a silk shop, but Kuniyoshi loved anything with pictures—scrolls, screens, comic books. He talked his way into the Utagawa school, a kind of…