Artwork

Igirisu to korombojin|English Woman with Black Man

Igirisu to korombojin|English Woman with Black Man, by Utagawa Yoshiiku, ink, 11
Igirisu to korombojin|English Woman with Black Man, by Utagawa Yoshiiku, ink, 11

Igirisu to korombojin|English Woman with Black Man is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Utagawa Yoshiiku. It dates from 11 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Utagawa Yoshiiku's woodblock print, Igirisu to korombojin (English Woman with Black Man), dates to 1861 and is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an indoor encounter between a European woman and a man of mixed attire, suggesting a transaction or greeting. Her outfit is distinctly European (red hat, blue jacket, green skirt with white flowers), while his combines Western (mustache, red cap) and Japanese elements (black coat with red cuffs). The setting includes shelves with stacked items and Japanese signage.

Technique & Style

Executed in ink and color on paper, the work showcases Yoshiiku's woodblock print technique, capturing detailed textures and vibrant colors, such as the woman's bright red hat and the man's black coat with red cuffs.

History & Provenance

Created in 1861, the print is now housed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, where similar works can be viewed.

Artist & collection