The Sixth Month (Kazemachizuki), from the series "Fashionable Monthly Visits to Sacred Places in the Four Seasons (Furyu shiki no tsuki mode)" c. 1784

"The Sixth Month (Kazemachizuki)" is a woodblock print created by renowned Japanese artist Torii Kiyonaga in c. 1784. It's part of the series "Fashionable Monthly Visits to Sacred Places in the Four Seasons (Furyu shiki no tsuki mode)" that depicted fashionable women enjoying seasonal activities. This particular print showcases three women in elaborate kimono, gazing at caged birds, a popular pastime in Edo-era Japan. Kiyonaga’s expert use of delicate lines and vibrant colors captures the graceful beauty of the women and the rich detail of their attire. This print is a quintessential example of ukiyo-e art, a style known for its depiction of the "floating world" of Edo-era Japan.