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Shi Gatsu|The Fourth Month

Ishikawa Toyomasa

1767

ink

paper

From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art

Romanticism 18th Century Playing

Dominant colour

Shi Gatsu|The Fourth Month is a 1767 ink by Ishikawa Toyomasa, a Romanticism work, depicting Playing, held at Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Ishikawa Toyomasa
When & what style?: 1767 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: Metropolitan Museum of Art

About this work

This print shows a lively group of people in bright robes, some lifting a person into the air. One person in red is mid-jump, while others reach up or cheer. The background has a river, hills, and a small map with text—maybe a calendar or location. A bird flies overhead, and the scene feels full of energy. The red-robed figure’s pose looks like they’re playing a game, maybe a festival or team effort. The artist used bold colors and simple shapes to make the action pop. Next, look up playing in Japanese festivals to see how this fits in.