Highly regarded for his images of actors, toyokuni was also known for his prints of beauties that demonstrate his brilliant skill in composition. This triptych depicts a joyful hanami (flower viewing) scene in spring. One woman stands on a huge wine bottle, while another one sits on a samurai’s shoulder; in both scenes, the women are tying prayers or poems on tree branches. On the left, two servants protect a well-dressed lady from the wind. Their fluttering, long-sleeved kimonos capture the wind’s movement. Standing in a triad, the three groups form a stable, harmonic composition against the cherry blossom background. Date: 1796. Place of creation: Japan, Edo Period (1615-1868). Dimensions: Overall: 38.7 x 80 cm (15 1/4 x 31 1/2 in.). Medium: ink and color on paper, prints, woodblock print. Collection: Cleveland Museum of Art.
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