Abalone Divers I – Ukiyo-e Woodblock Print Art Painting

$7,100

Description:

“Abalone Divers I” is a woodblock print by Kitagawa Utamaro, part of his renowned series featuring ama divers — traditional Japanese women who dove for abalone and other shellfish without modern diving equipment. This artwork is a striking example of Utamaro’s ability to combine graceful composition with a deep appreciation for everyday labor and femininity.

In “Abalone Divers I,” Utamaro portrays the women in natural, fluid motion, their bodies arched and balanced as they emerge from or prepare to dive into the sea. The print captures the shimmering textures of water, the tension of movement, and the strength of the female form — all executed with his characteristic attention to line, posture, and intimacy. While many ukiyo-e artists focused on courtesans and kabuki actors, Utamaro’s depiction of working women in harmony with nature added a fresh, respectful perspective to the genre. This piece is often celebrated for its blend of aesthetic beauty and ethnographic insight into traditional Japanese life.

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Artist:

Kitagawa Utamaro (c. 1753–1806) was a celebrated Japanese ukiyo-e artist of the Edo period, best known for his bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women). His elegant, elongated portraits of courtesans, geishas, and everyday women transformed the genre with a new sensitivity to mood, personality, and beauty. Utamaro masterfully captured subtle facial expressions, gestures, and seasonal elements, making his work both emotionally nuanced and visually distinctive.

He rose to fame in the 1790s with works like Ten Types of Women’s Physiognomy and Famous Beauties of Edo, which showcased his talent for portraying individuality within idealized forms. Beyond female portraits, Utamaro also created nature studies—especially of insects and birds—and illustrated erotic prints (shunga). His innovative compositions and refined linework deeply influenced later artists, including the French Impressionists. Despite facing censorship toward the end of his life, Utamaro remains one of the most influential figures in Japanese woodblock printing.

Material: Canvas

Frame: Rolled Canvas (Without Frame)

Print Quality: Our prints are crafted on premium archival materials, ensuring vibrant colors, sharp details, and long-lasting durability. Fade-resistant and flawless, they’re designed to keep your space looking elegant for years.

Size: 36*54 inches

Delivery: 2-3 weeks

Certificate of Authenticity: YES (emailed upon delivery)
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