Kitagawa Utamaro (1753-1806) Antique Woodblock print measuring 8 1/2 inches wide by 11 1/2 inches long. Not framed & selling as a loose sheet.Kitagawa Utamaro was a Japanese artist. He is one of the most highly regarded designers of ukiyoe woodblock prints and paintings, and is best known for his bijin okubie large-headed pictures of beautiful women" of the 1790's. He also produced nature studies, particularly illustrated books of insects. Little is known of Utamaro's life. His work began to appear in the 1770's, and he rose to prominence in the early 1790's with his portraits of beauties with exaggerated, elongated features. He produced over 2000 known prints and was one of the few ukiyoe artists to achieve fame throughout Japan in his lifetime. In 1804 he was arrested and manacled for fifty days for making illegal prints depicting the 16th-century military ruler Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and died two years later.Utamaro's work reached Europe in the mid-nineteenth century, where it was very popular, enjoying particular acclaim in France. He influenced the European Impressionists, particularly with his use of partial views and his emphasis on light and shade, which they imitated. The reference to the "Japanese influence" among these artists often refers to the work of Utamaro.

A single sheet & has no frame, Damaged ivory margins , good impression & good rich colors, Ready to hang & display as is. Please refer to all images. All lots are sold As Is and we always ask all to attend the preview in our showroom prior to the sale and to examine all lots in person. If bidding on line , please examine all posted images and if you have any questions please email us before the auction begins.