Genieten van de avondbries bij de rivier in Shijo, Kyoto. 1790 - 1795

Katsukawa Shunchō created this woodblock print entitled "Enjoying the Evening Breeze by the River in Shijo, Kyoto" at an unknown date. Notice the use of line and composition: the figures are carefully arranged to guide the viewer's eye through the scene. Shunchō's print masterfully employs a balance between geometric precision and organic fluidity. Observe how the vertical lines of the women's robes contrast with the horizontal lines of the bridge and buildings in the background, creating a sense of depth and perspective. The pale palette and intricate patterns, on the other hand, evoke a feeling of elegance and refinement characteristic of the ukiyo-e style. The formal structure thus reflects cultural codes of beauty and leisure, inviting us to contemplate the interplay between art, society, and the ephemeral pleasures of life. Ultimately, the beauty of this print resides not only in what it depicts but also in how its structure functions as a cultural mirror, inviting endless re-interpretations of its meanings.