Hanging Up a Mosquito Net c. 1767 - 1768

Suzuki Harunobu created this woodblock print, now at the Art Institute of Chicago, with masterful color and line. The vertical composition focuses our gaze on the figure arranging a mosquito net, her form and movement captured with delicate precision. Harunobu’s genius lies in his ability to distill complex scenes into simplified, elegant forms. Notice how the stripes of the woman's kimono and the patterned sash create a rhythmic interplay, guiding the eye. The lines of the mosquito net form a subtle geometric pattern overhead, framing the scene and adding depth. Harunobu's work reflects a broader cultural interest in capturing the fleeting beauty of everyday life, and this print encapsulates a moment of domesticity and elegance. The formal elements of the print—its composition, color, and line work—come together to evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony. This artwork invites us to appreciate the subtle beauty of form, and to consider the ways in which art shapes and reflects our perceptions of the world around us.