Woman Likened to Chinese Hermit Handling Dragon 1765

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, created by Suzuki Harunobu in 1765, depicts a woman seated on a platform, holding a bowl towards a dragon that appears to be rising from the smoke of incense. The composition is characteristic of Harunobu’s work, known for its delicate lines and use of color. The woman’s elegant kimono and the intricate details of the dragon’s scales contribute to the overall sense of beauty and refinement. This print is an example of the popular "bijin-ga" genre, which focuses on the depiction of beautiful women, and reflects the social and cultural norms of the Edo period in Japan.