山姥と金太郎|Yamauba and Kintarō Playing with a Cherry

Art Historical Context

In this vibrant woodblock print from around 1795, Kitagawa Utamaro captures a tender moment between the mountain ogress Yamauba and the legendary boy Kintarō, as they playfully share a cherry. Utamaro, a master of ukiyo-e—the "pictures of the floating world" that celebrated everyday beauty and folklore during Japan's Edo period (1615–1868)—is renowned for his exquisite portraits of women. Here, he extends his genius to a whimsical scene blending myth and maternal warmth humanizing the fearsome Yamauba, who in Japanese folklore raised the superhuman Kintarō amid wild mountains. The print's nishiki-e technique, meaning "brocade pictures," revolutionized woodblock printing with its layered colors from multiple carved blocks, inks, and pigments, creating the rich, jewel-like hues that mimic luxurious textiles. Measuring about 15 by 10 inches—a standard ôban size—this intimate format made such art accessible to everyday collectors, reflecting Edo Japan's booming urban culture and love for kabuki-inspired tales. Kintarō's story, symbolizing youthful strength and harmony with nature, resonated in a time of social stability and artistic innovation. Utamaro's delicate lines and subtle shading highlight emotional bonds, inviting viewers to ponder folklore's human side. A gem from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, it showcases ukiyo-e's enduring cultural magic.

About the Artist

Kitagawa Utamaro 喜多川歌麿 (Japanese) · 1754 –1806

Japanese, ca. 1754–1806