Artwork
新板浮絵忍ヶ岡之圖|Perspective Print: Shinobazu Pond
新板浮絵忍ヶ岡之圖|Perspective Print: Shinobazu Pond is an ink print by the Baroque artist Utagawa Toyoharu. It dates from 1774 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Utagawa Toyoharu's 'Perspective Print: Shinobazu Pond' (1774) is a woodblock print on paper, utilizing ink and color. It depicts a serene scene of Shinobazu Pond, showcasing everyday life and natural surroundings.
Subject & Meaning
The print captures a tranquil moment at Shinobazu Pond, with figures strolling, carrying out daily activities, and enjoying the surroundings. The composition conveys a sense of peaceful coexistence between nature and urban life.
Technique & Style
Toyoharu employed a range of colors, from muted greens to vibrant reds, and utilized perspective to create depth, guiding the viewer's eye into the scene. The work exemplifies early Japanese perspective techniques in woodblock printing.
History & Provenance
Created in 1774, the print is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.
Context
While the work predates the Baroque movement's influence in Japan, its use of perspective reflects global artistic exchanges. It stands as an example of Japanese ukiyo-e's evolution in the 18th century.
Legacy
'Perspective Print: Shinobazu Pond' contributes to the development of perspective in Japanese woodblock prints, influencing later ukiyo-e artists in their depiction of everyday life and landscapes.
Artist & collection
