Home > Arts > Artists > K > Utamaro Kitagawa
Shiohi no tsuto (Gifts from the Ebb Tide), known as the Shell Book
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Shiohi no tsuto (Gifts from the Ebb Tide), known as the Shell Book
3071993 Shiohi no tsuto (Gifts from the Ebb Tide), known as the Shell Book, 1789 (colour woodblock print) by Utamaro, Kitagawa (1753-1806); Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; (add.info.: Production notes: album of kyA'ka verse for the akera poetry group printed in colours from woodblocks, with eight double-page illustrations. preface by akera kankA and colophon by chieda no hanamoto, published by tsutaya jnzaburA'. first edition, in original dark blue covers painted in gold and silver with plovers, waves and bands of mist; hand-written title-slip. acquisition credit: bought with a contribution from the national art collections fund.); eFitzwilliam Museum; Japanese, out of copyright
Media ID 22233820
© Fitzwilliam Museum / Bridgeman Images
Album Clam Shell Colour Printing Edo Period Kitagawa Utamaro Language Marine Mollusk Script Sea Shell Seashore Seaweed Shellfish Shells Texts Utamaro Verses Woodcut
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> K
> Utamaro Kitagawa
> Arts
> Artists
> U
> Kitagawa Utamaro
> Arts
> Literature
> Books
> Arts
> Literature
> Illustration
> Arts
> Literature
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Kitagawa Utamaro
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Quinto Cenni
> Fine Art Finder
> Japanese Art
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Shiohi no tsuto (Gifts from the Ebb Tide), known as the Shell Book" by Utamaro, Kitagawa takes us on a journey to the mesmerizing world of 18th-century Japan. The colour woodblock print showcases the delicate artistry and poetic beauty that defined the Edo period. The image captures an album of kyA'ka verse for the akera poetry group, adorned with eight double-page illustrations. Each page is meticulously crafted using woodblocks and vibrant colours, bringing to life scenes of plovers soaring above crashing waves and misty bands. The original dark blue covers painted in gold and silver depict intricate patterns inspired by nature. The shellfish motif dominates this artwork, symbolizing both tranquility and mystery. Clam shells are carefully arranged alongside seaweed, creating a harmonious composition that evokes a sense of serenity found at the seashore. These natural elements serve as inspiration for the accompanying verses written in elegant script. Utamaro's work not only celebrates visual aesthetics but also pays homage to Japanese literature and language. Through his masterful use of color printing techniques, he invites viewers into a realm where poetry intertwines with marine imagery. This remarkable piece now resides at Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK thanks to its acquisition credit from the national art collections fund. It serves as a timeless reminder of Utamaro's artistic genius during one of Japan's most culturally rich periods – an exquisite fusion of artistry and nature captured within these pages.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
