Kobushō Kasei from the Series Thirty-Six Restaurants In New Tokyo

Art Historical Context

This woodblock print by Toyohara Kunichika, titled "Kobushō Kasei," belongs to the series "Thirty-Six Restaurants In New Tokyo." Created in the late 19th century during Japan's Edo period, it showcases the artist's skill in the traditional ukiyo-e style through vibrant ink and color paper. Measuring about 14 3/4 by 9 7/8 inches, the work highlights a female figure, aligning with the era's popular depictions of women in everyday or leisure settings. The series itself captures Tokyo's evolving urban landscape, where new restaurants became lively social hubs amid modernization. Kunichika's printmaking technique—layering colors from carved wooden blocks—allowed for detailed, affordable images that brought these scenes to a broad audience. As part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection, it preserves a snapshot of cultural transition. Such prints served both as art and cultural documents, celebrating contemporary life while honoring time-honored Japanese aesthetics. Visitors can appreciate how Kunichika blended tradition with the excitement of "New Tokyo," offering insight into the period's social vibrancy.

About the Artist

Toyohara Kunichika · 1835–1900

Japanese, 1835–1900