Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Totoya Hokkei, ink, 1850
Untitled, by Totoya Hokkei, ink, 1850

Untitled is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Totoya Hokkei. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Untitled is a mid-19th-century Japanese woodblock print (surimono) by Totoya Hokkei, dated to 1850. Executed in ink and color on paper, it is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print juxtaposes two main elements: a circular shape containing Japanese text on the left, and a bowl adorned with a bird design, accompanied by fruit (possibly apples) and a tagged fruit on the right. Inscriptions appear on both the bowl and the tag, though their specific meaning is not detailed here.

Technique & Style

Characterized by simplicity and elegance, the design emphasizes natural forms. The light beige background subtly complements the illustrated elements, reflecting traditional surimono aesthetics.

History & Provenance

Created in 1850 by Totoya Hokkei, the work's history prior to its acquisition by The Metropolitan Museum of Art is not specified in available details.

Context

While the provided visual note mentions Romanticism, this association seems misplaced as the work's style and period align more closely with traditional Japanese surimono prints, which often featured poetic or literary themes, rather than Western Romanticism.

Artist & collection