Young Man Walking Toward the Left on High Geta and Playing the Flute as He Walks 1735 - 1755

This woodblock print, created between 1735 and 1755 by renowned Japanese artist Okumura Masanobu, depicts a young man in traditional attire, walking while playing a flute. The subject's elegant posture and intricate clothing details are characteristic of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that flourished during the Edo period. The print's elongated format is typical of the "fūzoku-e" subgenre, depicting scenes of everyday life. The striking contrast of black and white lines creates a dynamic and sophisticated visual experience. Masanobu's mastery of woodblock printing is evident in the intricate detail of the subject's clothing and the delicate shading of the background. This print, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the fashion and lifestyle of 18th-century Japan.