Utagawa Toyokuni II

1777–1835 · Japanese · 18 artworks

Ukiyo-eukiyo-e woodblock printingbijin-ga (portraits of beautiful women)yakusha-e (actor prints)use of vibrant colorsdynamic compositions

artist bio

Utagawa Toyokuni II, also known as Toyoshige, was a prominent Japanese ukiyo-e artist of the late Edo period. He specialized in portraits of actors (yakusha-e) and beautiful women (bijin-ga), continuing the Utagawa school's tradition while incorporating his own stylistic nuances.

what you'll learn

Studying Toyokuni II's work allows students to understand the conventions of ukiyo-e printmaking, including woodblock carving and printing techniques, as well as the cultural significance of portraying actors and beauties in Edo-period Japan. Students can also learn about the role of color and line in creating visually appealing and informative compositions.

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18 artworks

Segawa Kiku-no-jo Okiwa

1825