The Eleventh Month (Juichigatsu), from the series "Twelve Months in the South (Minami juni ko)" c. 1783 - 1784

"The Eleventh Month (Juichigatsu)" is a woodblock print created by renowned Japanese artist Torii Kiyonaga (1752-1815) in the late 18th century. This piece is part of his iconic series "Twelve Months in the South (Minami juni ko)," which depicts the changing seasons and the daily life of people in Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the late Edo Period. The print showcases three elegant figures, likely courtesans, in winter attire, one of them seeking shelter under a thatched roof. This work is currently housed at The Art Institute of Chicago and represents the beauty of everyday life and the artistry of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese woodblock prints that flourished during this period.