Artwork Information: A color woodblock print from the ukiyo-e genre, part of the series “Twelve Hours of the Green Houses” (“Seirō Jūnitoki”)
Historical Context: Created during the Edo period, a time of relative peace and prosperity in Japan, when the ukiyo-e art form flourished
Artwork Appeal
Global Recognition: Utamaro is one of the most prominent ukiyo-e artists, known for his bijin-ga (beautiful women) prints, and his works have captivated audiences worldwide
Theme: “Koi Tsutsumi” (also known as “Yoritsuki Koi”) portrays a tender moment of love and longing between a young courtesan and her lover, showcasing the artist’s talent in capturing human emotions and expressions
Features: The piece is known for its delicate line work, attention to detail, and subtle color palette, which highlights the intimate atmosphere and contributes to its timeless beauty. Utamaro’s mastery of the “line of beauty” (aesthetic curves) and his ability to depict intricate patterns in clothing further enhance the visual appeal of the artwork
