Kacho chaya c. 1792 - 1793

"Kacho chaya" is a woodblock print created by Utagawa Toyokuni I around 1792-1793, currently housed in the Art Institute of Chicago. The artwork depicts a lively scene of women enjoying a teahouse in a garden setting. Toyokuni I, a prominent artist of the Edo period, is known for his vibrant and colorful depictions of kabuki actors and beautiful women. This print is a classic example of the "bijin-ga" genre, which focuses on the portrayal of beautiful women. The meticulous details and dynamic composition showcase the artist's mastery of the woodblock printing technique.