Act 1 c. 1810s

This woodblock print, *Act 1*, is a classic example of *ukiyo-e*, a genre of Japanese art depicting everyday life, particularly in Edo (present-day Tokyo). Created by the renowned artist Kitagawa Utamaro, *Act 1* showcases Utamaro's distinctive style of portraying women with delicate features and flowing lines. The print's composition and use of color highlight the elegance and beauty of the two figures, capturing a fleeting moment of interaction in the bustling world of Edo. The *hosoban* format, a narrow vertical print format, was popular for depicting single figures or intimate scenes.