Cherry Blossoms in the Wind
late 1790s
Medium
Triptych of woodblock prints, ink and color on paper
Dimensions
38.7 × 80 cm
Classification
Department
Japanese Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift of Jeptha H. Wade in honor of Emily V. Wade
Accession Number
1975.97
Tags
About this artwork
Highly regarded for his images of actors, Toyokuni was also known for his prints of beauties that demonstrate his brilliant skill in composition. This triptych depicts a joyful hanami (flower viewing) scene in spring. One woman stands on a huge wine bottle, while another one sits on a samurai’s shoulder; in both scenes, the women are tying prayers or poems on tree branches. On the left, two servants protect a well-dressed lady from the wind. Their fluttering, long-sleeved kimonos capture the win...