An English Man and a Russian Woman 1860

"An English Man and a Russian Woman" is a woodblock print by Utagawa Yoshiiku, a prominent artist in the late Edo period. The print depicts a Western-style gentleman with a rifle and a woman playing a flute in traditional Japanese attire, suggesting an encounter between different cultures. This print was likely created during a time of increased Western influence in Japan, as the country opened its borders after centuries of isolation. The contrasting attire and the presence of Western and Japanese elements create a sense of curiosity and intrigue, showcasing the cultural exchange during this period. The print, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a glimpse into the fascinating interplay of tradition and modernity in 19th-century Japan.