Kyo Shi 1755 - 1775

This woodblock print, "Kyo Shi" (circa 1755-1775), by renowned Japanese artist Isoda Koryūsai (1735-1790), depicts a charming scene of two women by a river. One woman is seated, seemingly engaged in fishing, while the other stands behind her, possibly offering companionship or observing the action. The artist’s delicate brushstrokes and use of subtle colors capture the tranquility of the setting, a popular theme in ukiyo-e art of the Edo period. This print, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, provides a glimpse into the everyday life and aesthetics of 18th-century Japan.