Gathering Lotus Flowers 1765

"Gathering Lotus Flowers" (1765) by Suzuki Harunobu depicts two women in a small boat on a tranquil lake, gathering lotus flowers. The woman in the foreground is reaching down into the water to pluck a lotus blossom while the other woman stands in the back of the boat, holding a long pole and gazing thoughtfully towards the shore. The scene is rendered in Harunobu's signature *ukiyo-e* style, known for its delicate lines, soft colors, and focus on everyday life and beauty. The print exemplifies Harunobu’s influence on the development of *nishiki-e* or “brocade” prints, which used multiple woodblocks to create more vibrant and detailed images. This print is a prime example of *bijin-ga*, or pictures of beautiful women, a popular genre in *ukiyo-e* art.