Artwork

『上野不忍競馬図』|View of the Horse Track at Shinobazu in Ueno Park (Ueno shinobazu keiba zu)

『上野不忍競馬図』|View of the Horse Track at Shinobazu in Ueno Park (Ueno shinobazu keiba zu) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Yōshū (Hashimoto) Chikanobu. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This triptych woodblock print, titled 'View of the Horse Track at Shinobazu in Ueno Park', was created by Yōshū Chikanobu in 1885.

Accession no.: JP3273
Credit line: Gift of Lincoln Kirstein, 1959

About this work

Overview

This triptych woodblock print, titled 'View of the Horse Track at Shinobazu in Ueno Park', was created by Yōshū Chikanobu in 1885. It is a cityscape scene comprising three panels, executed in ink and color on paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a horse racing event at Ueno Park's Shinobazu horse track. The three panels show the race in progress, a nearby body of water with boats, and spectators gathered before a building, some holding flags.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of color is notable, particularly the red and white flags that appear throughout the composition. Intricate details are evident in the riders' clothing and the building's architecture, showcasing Chikanobu's attention to detail.

History & Provenance

The print is held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Created in 1885, it reflects the cultural and recreational activities of late 19th-century Japan, with horse racing being a popular pastime during this period.

三代歌川広重画　『東京名所　従上野公園　不忍池中嶋弁天之景』|View of Benten Shrine on Nakanoshima Island in Shinobazu Pond, Ueno Park, from the series Famous Views of Tokyo (Tōkyō Tokyo meisho yori Ueno kōen Shinobazu no ike Nakanoshima Benten no kei), Utagawa Hiroshige III

Artist & collection

Artist

Yōshū (Hashimoto) Chikanobu

Japanese, 1838–1912

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art

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