Who painted Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank?

Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank was painted by Katsushika Hokusai in 1800.

Where can I see Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank?

Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank?

Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank

Katsushika Hokusai , 1800

Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank is a print by the Romanticist artist Katsushika Hokusai. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1943.1
Credit line: Gift of Mrs. Ralph King

About this work

Overview

Two Women and a Child Beside a Goldfish Tank, circa 1800, is a print by Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai, currently in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays a serene domestic scene featuring two women and a child beside a goldfish tank. The contrast in the women's attire, a traditional kimono on the left and a modernized version on the right, may suggest a commentary on the evolving societal norms of the time. The child's gesture of reaching for the water enhances the sense of gentle, everyday life.

Technique & Style

While specific technical details of this print are not provided, Hokusai's works from this period often showcased meticulous woodblock printing techniques, characteristic of ukiyo-e. The serene composition and attention to detail in attire and setting are consistent with Hokusai's ability to capture intimate, peaceful moments.

History & Provenance

Created around 1800, the print's history prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here. It is part of Hokusai's extensive output during a period of significant artistic innovation in Japan.

Context

This work reflects the late Edo period's cultural shifts, where traditional and modern elements coexisted. The tranquil scene also aligns with the ukiyo-e genre's focus on capturing moments of beauty in everyday life and nature.

Legacy

As part of Hokusai's body of work, it contributes to the broader appreciation of ukiyo-e worldwide. However, specific details on its individual impact or exhibition history are not provided.