Cherry Blossoms in the Wind

late 1790s

Utagawa Toyokuni 歌川豊国

(Japanese, 1769–1825)

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Culture

Japan, Edo period (1615–1868)

Medium

Triptych of woodblock prints, ink and color on paper

Measurements

Overall: 38.7 x 80 cm (15 1/4 x 31 1/2 in.)

Credit Line

Gift of Jeptha H. Wade in honor of Emily V. Wade 1975.97

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Location

Not on view

Description

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.