Cherry Blossoms and Irises, from the illustrated book Flowers of the Four Seasons
1801
Medium
Woodblock print; ink and color on paper
Dimensions
6 13/16 x 10 5/16 in. (17.3 x 26.2 cm)
Classification
Prints
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Estate of Samuel Isham, 1914
Accession Number
JP1072
Tags
Art Historical Context
Kitagawa Utamaro's *Cherry Blossoms andises*, created in 1801, is a delicate woodblock print from the illustrated book *Flowers of Four Seasons*. This work exemplifies the Edo period (1615–1868), a age for ukiyo-e—"pictures of the floating world"— artists captured fleeting moments of beauty amid Japan's urbanizing society. Utamaro, renowned for his exquisite depictions of women and nature, turns his mastery to spring flora, showcasing cherry blossoms (sakura) and irises in vibrant harmony. Printed with ink and color on paper using intricate woodblock techniques, the image measures just 6 13/1...
About the Artist
Kitagawa Utamaro · 1753–1806
Kitagawa Utamaro (c. 1753-1806) was one of the most celebrated masters of ukiyo-e woodblock printing, revolutionizing the art of bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) during Japan's Edo period. Born Kitagawa Ichitaro, his early life remains shrouded in mystery, with conflicting accounts placing his birth in Kyoto, Osaka, Yoshiwara in Edo (modern Tokyo), or Kawagoe in Musashi Province. Under the t...