Ukita Ikkei (浮田一蕙)

Place: Japan

Born: 1795

Death: 1859

Biography:

Biography and Artistic Contributions

, a Japanese painter from 1795 to 1859, was one of the leaders of the yamato-e revivalists. His work, characterized by its unique blend of traditional Japanese elements and innovative techniques, has left an indelible mark on the art world.

Early Life and Training

Born in 1795, Ukita Ikkei began his artistic journey under the tutelage of renowned masters of the time. His early work was heavily influenced by the Ukiyo-e movement, which emphasized the production of woodblock prints and paintings depicting various subjects.

Artistic Style and Techniques

Ukita Ikkei's style is notable for its fusion of traditional Japanese motifs with bold, vibrant colors. His use of gradation of colors on the printing block resulted in subtle yet striking effects, characteristic of the ukiyo-e technique.

Notable Works and Influences

• Ukita Ikkei's paintings often featured female beauties, historical scenes, and folk tales, reflecting his adherence to the yamato-e revivalist movement.
• His work was influenced by the likes of Katsushika Hokusai, a prominent ukiyo-e artist, known for his iconic print The Great Wave off Kanagawa.
• Ukita Ikkei's contributions to the yamato-e revival have been recognized alongside other notable artists, such as Kitagawa Utamaro, who was renowned for his bijin ōkubi-e 'large-headed pictures of beautiful women'.

Legacy and Impact on Art

Ukita Ikkei's innovative approach to traditional Japanese art has left a lasting impact on the art world. His work, characterized by its unique blend of colors and techniques, continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike.

• Torii Kiyonaga's Three Girls on a Riverbank showcases a similar style, with fashionably dressed women depicted in an elongated, graceful manner.
• Osen Keisan's Chinese Poem on Fishing and Zen demonstrates a similar use of flamboyant, controlled brushwork.

Museum Collections and Art Market

Ukita Ikkei's work can be found in various museum collections, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York City, United States), which features a notable collection of ukiyo-e prints.

• For more information on Ukita Ikkei and his contributions to the yamato-e revival, visit Wikioo.org's Ukita Ikkei page.
• Explore the The Ukiyo-e Art Movement for a deeper understanding of the ukiyo-e genre and its influence on Japanese art.

Conclusion

Ukita Ikkei's unique approach to traditional Japanese art has cemented his place as a leader of the yamato-e revivalists. His innovative techniques and bold use of colors continue to inspire artists, making him an important figure in the history of Japanese art.