Wasps and hairy caterpillar on arrowroot 1788

"Wasps and hairy caterpillar on arrowroot," created in 1788 by Japanese artist Kitagawa Utamaro, is a captivating illustration of insects and plants. This woodblock print, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, features delicate details of a hairy caterpillar perched on arrowroot blossoms while two wasps hover nearby. Utamaro, a master of the ukiyo-e style, captures the beauty of nature with remarkable precision, showcasing his mastery of detail and composition. The print exemplifies Utamaro's signature style, known for its elegance and intricate depiction of everyday scenes, offering viewers a glimpse into the natural world of 18th-century Japan.