Naniwaya Okita Geisha

Beautiful woodblock print by Japanese artist Utamaro Kitagawa entitled Naniwaya Okita. It depicts Naniwaya Okita, a teahouse waitress, half-length portrait, turned to the left, carrying a bowl on a tray. Kitagawa Utamaro (喜多川 歌麿, ca. 1753 - October 31, 1806) was a Japanese printmaker and painter, who is considered one of the greatest artists of woodblock prints (ukiyo-e). His name was romanized archaically as Outamaro. He is known especially for his masterfully composed studies of women, known as bijinga. He also produced nature studies, particularly illustrated books of insects. His work reached Europe in the mid-nineteenth century, where it was very popular, enjoying particular acclaim in France. He influenced the European Impressionists, particularly with his use of partial views and his emphasis on light and shade. The reference to the "Japanese influence" among these artists often refers to the work of Utamaro.