Artwork

歌川五雲亭貞秀画『横浜商家異人之図』|French Woman and Girl, from the series Foreign Merchants in Yokohama (Yokohama shōka ijin no zu)

歌川五雲亭貞秀画『横浜商家異人之図』|French Woman and Girl, from the series Foreign Merchants in Yokohama (Yokohama shōka ijin no zu) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Utagawa (Gountei) Sadahide. It dates from 1 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Another woman in a blue dress stands behind her, and a girl in a long striped skirt looks on.

This print shows three women in a room with a mirror. The woman in the center, in a bright red jacket and checkered skirt, is brushing her hair. Another woman in a blue dress stands behind her, and a girl in a long striped skirt looks on.

The room has a green wall, a window with curtains, and a framed sign with red and white text.

The checkered skirt and bold colors stand out, this print was made in 1861 in Japan. It captures a moment of daily life, blending Western and Japanese styles.

Look up Utagawa (Gountei) Sadahide to see more of his work.

Overview

This woodblock print, titled 'French Woman and Girl, from the series Foreign Merchants in Yokohama,' is a work by Utagawa Sadahide, created in 1861. It depicts a scene of three women in a room, showcasing a blend of Western and Japanese elements.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows a woman in a bright red jacket and checkered skirt brushing her hair, assisted by another woman, while a girl observes. The scene captures a moment of daily life, reflecting the cultural exchange occurring in Yokohama during this period.

Technique & Style

Executed in ink and color on paper, the print features bold colors and distinctive patterns, such as the checkered skirt. The use of vibrant hues and detailed textures highlights the artist's skill in the nishiki-e technique.

History & Provenance

Created in 1861, the print is part of a series documenting foreign merchants in Yokohama, a city experiencing significant cultural and economic changes during the late Edo period.

歌川五雲亭貞秀画　『生写異国人物　阿蘭陀婦人舉觴　愛児童之図』|Dutch Woman and Child (Seisha ikoku jinbutsu Oranda fujin aijidō no zu), Utagawa (Gountei) Sadahide

Artist & collection

Artist

Utagawa (Gountei) Sadahide

Utagawa Sadahide, also known as Gountei Sadahide, was a Japanese artist best known for his prints in the ukiyo-e style as a member of the Utagawa school.