Vrouw aan tafel, lezend in de "Vertelling van Genji". 1710 - 1720

This woodblock print by Torii Kiyomasu the First presents us with a scene of quiet contemplation. The composition, structured around a series of rectangles and linear elements, immediately draws the eye to the woman, who is seated within a carefully delineated interior space. The artist employs a deliberate flatness, foregoing traditional perspective to emphasize surface patterns and shapes. The honey comb pattern of the woman’s kimono contrasts with the red floral motifs, creating a visual tension that enlivens the composition. The lines of the room converge to create a sense of depth, whilst the objects on the shelves offer glimpses into a world beyond the immediate scene. This print is an exercise in structured simplicity. The geometric framework supports a narrative tableau, inviting us to consider how constructed spaces influence personal and psychological states. Kiyomasu doesn't just show us a woman reading; he presents a study in form and its capacity to create a dynamic, engaging image.