Artwork

Man and Woman

Man and Woman, by Kitagawa Utamaro, 1780
Man and Woman, by Kitagawa Utamaro, 1780

Man and Woman is a print by the Romanticist artist Kitagawa Utamaro. It dates from 1780 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1943.21

About this work

Overview

Man and Woman, a print by Kitagawa Utamaro from 1780, is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. The work captures a serene, intimate scene between two figures.

Subject & Meaning

A man gently plays a flute while a woman stands beside him, her head inclined towards him, conveying a sense of connection and quiet intimacy through their subtle expressions.

Technique & Style

Characterized by muted tones, including grays, pinks, and beige, the print features delicate lines and soft brushstrokes, evoking a tranquil atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created in 1780 by Kitagawa Utamaro, the print's history prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here.

Context

Reflective of late 18th-century Japanese aesthetics, the piece aligns with the softer, more intimate themes found in ukiyo-e prints of the time.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable exhibitions are not highlighted, the work remains a representative example of Utamaro's contribution to the ukiyo-e genre.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Man and Woman?

Man and Woman was painted by Kitagawa Utamaro in 1780.

Where can I see Man and Woman?

Man and Woman is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Man and Woman?

Man and Woman is associated with Romanticism.