Nieuwjaarsoptreden 1778 - 1782

This woodblock print, titled "Nieuwjaarsoptreden" (New Year Performance), is a work by renowned Japanese artist Torii Kiyonaga, created between 1778 and 1782. The artwork depicts a scene of a New Year performance, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Japan during this time. The print features a figure in a brown kimono playing a flute, while other figures observe from behind a slatted partition. The scene is rendered with meticulous detail and vibrant colors, highlighting the artist's mastery of the ukiyo-e style, which often depicted scenes from everyday life, popular entertainment, and the natural world. Currently housed at the Rijksmuseum, the print is a significant example of Kiyonaga's skill and artistry.