Awabi divers 1788

"Awabi Divers" is a woodblock print by the renowned Japanese artist Kitagawa Utamaro, dating back to 1788. It depicts a scene of two women engaged in the dangerous and demanding practice of abalone diving. The print showcases Utamaro's signature style, known for its delicate lines and meticulous attention to detail. The composition captures a moment of intense physical exertion and the perilous conditions of the underwater environment, as one diver struggles with a large abalone while the other rests on a rocky outcropping. This print is a striking example of Utamaro's ability to capture the beauty and hardship of everyday life in Edo-era Japan.