Grosbeak and woodpecker c. 1796

This woodblock print by renowned Japanese artist Kitagawa Utamaro, dating back to c. 1796, depicts a grosbeak and a woodpecker perched on a pine branch. The artist's signature style is evident in the delicate details of the birds' plumage and the graceful curve of the branch. Utamaro, known for his depictions of beautiful women, also excelled in capturing the delicate beauty of nature. This small-scale print, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a testament to his mastery of the medium and his keen eye for detail. The Japanese characters on the print likely represent a poem or caption accompanying the artwork.