Artwork

Orosia|Mounted Russian

Orosia|Mounted Russian, by Utagawa Yoshitora, ink, 5
Orosia|Mounted Russian, by Utagawa Yoshitora, ink, 5

Orosia|Mounted Russian is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Utagawa Yoshitora. It dates from 5 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

There’s Japanese text around them, and a blue sign on the left reads *Orosia* (which likely means "Russian").

This print shows a man in a dark top hat and blue coat riding a dark horse. The horse has a green saddle blanket and a red sash under its belly. The man holds a long object—maybe a sword or cane—pointed forward. There’s Japanese text around them, and a blue sign on the left reads *Orosia* (which likely means "Russian").

The horse’s tail is tied up neatly, and the man’s coat has bright red lining. The background is plain, keeping focus on the two figures. This print was made in Japan in 1861 to show foreign visitors.

Look up Utagawa Yoshitora next to see more of his work.

Overview

Orosia|Mounted Russian is a woodblock print created by Utagawa Yoshitora in 1861. It is a representation of a foreign visitor on horseback, rendered in ink and color on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man in Western attire riding a dark horse, with a long object in hand. Japanese text surrounds the figures, and a sign on the left identifies the subject as 'Orosia,' or 'Russian.' The image was likely intended to showcase foreign visitors to Japan.

Technique & Style

The print features a dark horse with a green saddle blanket and red sash, while the rider's blue coat has a bright red lining. The horse's tail is neatly tied, and the plain background emphasizes the two figures. The use of vibrant colors and detailed attire suggests a focus on capturing the essence of the foreign visitor.

History & Provenance

The print is now held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, indicating its significance as a representation of Japan's engagement with foreign cultures during this period.

Artist & collection