Artwork

Woman as an Itinerant Monk: Onna Komuso (Otsu-e)

Woman as an Itinerant Monk: Onna Komuso (Otsu-e), by Unknown, unspecified, 1700
Woman as an Itinerant Monk: Onna Komuso (Otsu-e), by Unknown, unspecified, 1700

Woman as an Itinerant Monk: Onna Komuso (Otsu-e) is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1700 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This painting, titled 'Woman as an Itinerant Monk: Onna Komuso (Otsu-e)', depicts a woman dressed in a white robe with black and red accents, playing a flute while traveling. The work is a representation of a figure in a simple, bold style.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is dressed as a komuso, a type of itinerant monk, indicated by her wide-brimmed hat and bag. The adoption of male attire by the female figure may symbolize her embracing a traditionally male role or profession.

Technique & Style

The painting is characterized by its simplicity, bold lines, and bright colors, creating a striking visual effect. The style is reminiscent of Otsu-e, a genre of Japanese folk art known for its straightforward and vibrant depictions.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

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