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『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami)

Kitagawa Utamaro , 1788

『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami), by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1788
『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami), by Kitagawa Utamaro, ink, 1788

『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Kitagawa Utamaro. It dates from 1788 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This woodblock print is a page from 'Ehon mushi erami' (Picture Book of Crawling Creatures), created by Kitagawa Utamaro in 1788. It is a double composition featuring natural subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two scenes: a yellow flower entwined with vines, and a spider and beetle navigating tangled greenery. Japanese poetry accompanies the images on the left, contributing to the overall mood.

Technique & Style

Utamaro employed soft, earthy tones and delicate brushstrokes to bring the insects and plants to life. The plain background allows the lines and colors to take prominence.

History & Provenance

The print is now held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted 『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami)?

『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami) was painted by Kitagawa Utamaro in 1788.

Where can I see 『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami)?

『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami) is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is 『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami)?

『画本虫撰』 「ひくらし」「くも」|Evening Cicada, Higurashi; Spider, Kumo, from the Picture Book of Crawling Creatures (Ehon mushi erami) is associated with Romanticism.