Kitagawa Utamaro (1753 – October 31, 1806) was a Japanese printmaker and painter, who is considered one of the greatest artists of woodblock prints (ukiyo-e). His name was romanized archaically asOutamaro. He is known especially for his masterfully composed studies of women, known as bijinga.

His work reached Europe in the mid-nineteenth century, where it was very popular, enjoying particular acclaim inFrance. He influenced the European Impressionists, particularly with his use of partial views and his emphasis on light and shade. The reference to the "Japanese influence" among these artists often refers to the work of Utamaro.
Continue reading →