Chinese Woman in a Boat and Figures in Landscapes – (Kanō Kōi) ◄ Previous Next ►

Artist: Kanō Kōi

Date: 601

Size: 118.3cm x 48.6cm

Technique: Paper

Introduction to Ukiyo-e Art Movement

Ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th through 19th centuries, is renowned for its woodblock prints and paintings depicting various subjects such as female beauties, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, historical scenes, folk tales, travel landscapes, flora, fauna, and erotica. The term Ukiyo-e (浮世絵) translates to 'picture[s] of the floating world', reflecting the hedonistic lifestyle of Edo's chōnin class (merchants, craftsmen, and workers).

Artist: Kano Kōi

Kano Kōi

was a prominent Japanese painter who lived from 1801 to 1865. He belonged to the prestigious Kano school, which dominated Japanese painting for over four centuries. The Kano school was known for its refined and elegant style, often depicting traditional subjects in a decorative manner.

Painting: Chinese Woman in a Boat and Figures in Landscapes

'Chinese Woman in a Boat and Figures in Landscapes' is an exquisite painting by Kano Kōi, showcasing his mastery of the Ukiyo-e style. The artwork features a Chinese woman gracefully rowing a boat amidst a serene landscape. The artist's use of vibrant colors and fluid brushwork creates a captivating scene that invites the viewer to explore the beauty of nature and the elegance of human figures.

Historical Context

In 1603, Edo (present-day Tokyo) became the seat of the ruling Tokugawa shogunate, leading to rapid economic growth and the emergence of a new social class: the chōnin. The chōnin indulged in entertainment such as kabuki theatre, geisha, and courtesans, creating demand for ukiyo-e artworks that depicted their hedonistic lifestyle.

Artistic Style and Techniques

Ukiyo-e artists used woodblock prints and paintings to create intricate compositions with a wide range of subjects. The printing process involved multiple woodblocks, each dedicated to a specific color or detail, resulting in richly layered images. Artists rarely carved their own woodblocks; instead, production was divided among the artist, carver, printer, and publisher.

Conclusion

'Chinese Woman in a Boat and Figures in Landscapes' by Kano Kōi is an exceptional example of Ukiyo-e artistry. The painting showcases the artist's skillful use of color, composition, and subject matter to create a captivating work that embodies the essence of the floating world. To learn more about ukiyo-e or explore other masterpieces, visit Wikioo.org.

• Reference: The Ukiyo-e Art Movement
• Related Painting: Chinese Woman in a Boat and Figures in Landscapes
• Artist: Kano Kōi