Hour of the Horse [12 am], Shrine Maiden (Uma no koku, miko), from the series “Customs of Beauties Around the Clock” ("Fuzoku bijin tokei")

Art Historical Context

In the enchanting world of ukiyo-e, Kitagawa Utamaro'sHour of the Horse [ am], Shrine Maiden (Uma no koku, miko)* from the series *Customs of Beaut Around the Clock* (. 1798/99) captures a moment of quiet elegance at midnight. This color woodblock print on oban paper (37.7 × 25.2 cm) depicts a miko, or Shinto shrine maiden, embodying the poise and mystique associated with Japan's traditional timekeeping by zodiac animals—the Horse hour spanning 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Utamaro, a master of bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women), immortalizes her in flowing robes, highlighting the grace of women in everyday roles. Utamaro's genius lies in his innovative use of woodblock printing techniques, layering vibrant colors and subtle gradations (known as bokashi) to create a luminous, almost three-dimensional effect. Produced during Japan's Edo period, when ukiyo-e prints democratized art for urban audiences, this work reflects the era's fascination with *fūzoku* (customs and manners), blending sensuality with cultural ritual. The series cleverly structures the day into 12 hourly vignettes, each featuring a beauty tied to zodiac themes. Held in the Art Institute of Chicago's Arts of Asia collection, this print exemplifies Utamaro's peak influence before government censorship curtailed such lavish depictions of women, making it a treasured glimpse into 18th-century Japanese aesthetics and femininity.

About the Artist

Kitagawa Utamaro · 1753–1806

Kitagawa Utamaro (c. 1753-1806) was one of the most celebrated masters of ukiyo-e woodblock printing, revolutionizing the art of bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women) during Japan's Edo period. Born Kitagawa Ichitaro, his early life remains shrouded in mystery, with conflicting accounts placing his birth in Kyoto, Osaka, Yoshiwara in Edo (modern Tokyo), or Kawagoe in Musashi Province. Under the t...