Nieuwjaarsdans

About this artwork

kleurenhoutsnede; lijnblok in zwart met kleurblokken in roze en grijs

Art Historical Context

**Nieuwjaarsdans (New Year's Dance)** by Torii Kiyom I (1734–1785) captures the joyous spirit of Japanese New Year celebrations in 1753, during the vibrant Edo period. As a leading figure in the Torii school ukiyo-e— depicting the "floating world" of theater, beauty, and urban pleasures—Kiyomitsu specialized in dynamic yakusha-e (actor). This tall, narrow *hashira-e* ( print), measuring 311 mm high by 142 mm wide, designed to be posted on architectural pillars, immersing passersby in festive scenes likely featuring graceful dancers or kabuki performers ushering in the New Year with rhythmic mo...