Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Kobikicho Arayashiki Koiseya Ochie" is an exquisite example of Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints, crafted by the renowned artist Utamaro Kitagawa in the late 18th century. This painting, like many of Utamaro’s works, captures the grace and beauty of women, focusing on the subtleties of their emotions and gestures.

- Composition and Subject Matter:
The painting features a woman adorned in traditional kimono attire, showcasing intricate patterns and delicate fabrics. Her posture is elegant and poised, evoking a sense of timeless beauty. The high level of detail in the kimono, from the floral patterns to the intricate layers, displays Utamaro's mastery in depicting textile textures.

- Color Palette:
The color palette primarily features soft, muted tones with occasional bright accents, creating a harmonious balance. Subtle shades of pink, blue, and green are used to convey the luxurious quality of the garments, while the woman's pale skin gleams softly against the background.

- Line and Brushwork:
Utamaro’s expert line work is evident in the flowing contours of the clothing and the delicate features of the woman's face. Each line is deliberate and curved gently to reflect the natural movement and grace of the subject. The hair is depicted with meticulous precision, each strand flowing seamlessly, providing a sense of movement and fluidity.

- Expression and Mood:
The expression on the woman's face is introspective and serene, perhaps suggesting a moment of quiet reflection or unspoken longing. Her downcast eyes and slightly parted lips add to the air of mystery and allure, inviting the viewer to ponder her thoughts and emotions.

Utamaro Kitagawa (1753-1806) is celebrated as one of Japan’s most prominent ukiyo-e artists, renowned for his portrayals of beautiful women (bijin-ga). His works are distinguished by their attention to the intricate details of the female form, their sophisticated color palettes, and the emotional depth conveyed through subtle facial expressions and gestures.

Ukiyo-e, which translates to "pictures of the floating world," was a popular art movement in Edo-period Japan. These artworks depicted scenes of contemporary urban life, including women, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, and landscapes. Utamaro stands out within this movement for his specialized focus on bijin-ga and his ability to capture the transient beauty of his subjects.

"Kobikicho Arayashiki Koiseya Ochie" fits seamlessly into Utamaro's oeuvre, reflecting his peak period of artistic development in the 1790s. During this time, Utamaro became famous for his large-head portraits (okubi-e), which allowed for a more detailed and intense exploration of his subjects' features. His works during this period are characterized by their sophistication, emotional depth, and technical prowess.

Although the original print of "Kobikicho Arayashiki Koiseya Ochie" may be held in different collections around the world, artworks by Utamaro are commonly found in renowned institutions such as:
- The Tokyo National Museum
- The British Museum in London
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York

These institutions often feature exhibitions of ukiyo-e prints, preserving and showcasing Utamaro’s legacy and the cultural heritage of the Edo period.

- Innovation in Artistic Techniques:
Utamaro’s use of mica backgrounds and embossing techniques in his prints brought a luxurious quality to his works, distinguishing them from those of his contemporaries.

- Cultural Influence:
Utamaro’s depiction of women transcended mere portraiture, offering insights into the societal roles, fashions, and domestic spaces of Edo-period Japan. His artworks provide not only aesthetic pleasure but also a valuable historical record.

- Legacy:
Utamaro’s influence extended beyond Japan, impacting 19th-century Western art, especially among Impressionists and Post-Impressionists who admired his unique compositions and depiction of everyday life.

In conclusion, "Kobikicho Arayashiki Koiseya Ochie" epitomizes Utamaro’s unique ability to blend technical skill with a deep appreciation for the elegance and complexity of his subjects, securing his place as a master in the world of ukiyo-e art.