Untitled

Hishikawa Moronobu 菱川師宣

1680s · Woodblock print; ink on paper · Asian Art

Moronobu's recurrent depictions of lovers in amorous poses allowed him to merge graphic and emotive qualities. Their physical and lyrical integration is heightened by the sinuous, animated lines and the play of the black and white patterning in the robes. As if to suggest the completeness of each sheet, the prolific book illustrator Moronobu framed the composition with a black-line border embellished with chrysanthemum-like ornaments at the upper corners.

Artist

Hishikawa Moronobu 菱川師宣

Date

1680s

Medium

Woodblock print; ink on paper

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Harris Brisbane Dick Fund and Rogers Fund, 1949