The First Childbirth (Uizan), the seventh sheet of the series "Marriage in Brocade Prints, the Carriage of the Virtuous Woman (Konrei nishiki misao-guruma)" c. 1769

"The First Childbirth (Uizan)" is the seventh sheet of the series "Marriage in Brocade Prints, the Carriage of the Virtuous Woman (Konrei nishiki misao-guruma)" by the renowned Japanese artist Suzuki Harunobu (1725-1770). This woodblock print, dating back to c. 1769, depicts a scene of a woman giving birth with the assistance of her servants. It is a captivating example of ukiyo-e, the genre of woodblock prints that flourished in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). The delicate lines and vibrant colors of the print showcase Harunobu's mastery of the medium, captivating viewers with a glimpse into the daily life of the Japanese aristocracy. This particular print, "The First Childbirth (Uizan)" exemplifies the beauty and artistic sophistication of 18th-century Japanese art, making it a cherished work in the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.