New Year in a Samurai Mansion, from the illustrated kyoka anthology "The Young God Ebisu (Waka Ebisu)"

Art Historical Context

Step into the lively world of Edo-period Japan with Kitagawa Utamaro'sNew Year in a Samurai Mansion*, a captivating double-page color woodblock print from the illustrated kyoka anthology *The Young Ebisu (Waka Ebisu)*, dated New Year 1789. Utamaro, a master the ukiyo-e ("pictures of the floating world tradition, vividly portrays the joyous chaos of samurai household festivities—guests mingling, laughter echoing, and seasonal decorations abound—capturing the optimistic spirit of Oshogatsu, Japan's pivotal New Year renewal. This artwork's double-page format allows for an immersive panoramic view, a hallmark of album illustrations that unfold like a scroll. Utamaro's innovative woodblock technique, involving meticulously carved blocks inked in vibrant hues of red, gold, and indigo, brings textures and depth to kimonos, screens, and faces, showcasing his signature finesse in rendering human elegance and everyday revelry. Rooted in kyoka—humorous, parodic poetry—the print ties into *Waka Ebisu*, evoking the youthful form of Ebisu, the fortune-bringing deity of prosperity and laughter. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Arts of Asia collection, it offers a window into 18th-century urban culture, blending satire, spirituality, and seasonal cheer for all who visit.

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...