Feeling Like Reading the Next Volume — Utagawa Kuniyoshi

A reader in Kuniyoshi’s world

This reproduction of Feeling Like Reading the Next Volume shows a woman holding an illustrated book against her chest. Her gaze turns away from its pages. Pale skin, black hair and gold ornaments stand out against a muted purple background.

Fine pale flowers cover the dark kimono. Red and green accents enliven the clothing, while the book adds another layer of pattern. Looking closely reveals a small figurative illustration beside its decorated cover.

A landscape above the portrait

The blue scene above the woman opens a window onto water, a boat and distant banks. Its horizontal lines balance the tall figure below. Crisp outlines and broad areas of colour give this Japanese print its distinctive structure.

The reproduction offers several points of interest: the face, the elaborate hairstyle, the printed fabrics and the picture within the picture. Each can be appreciated separately without losing the unity of the composition.

Japanese prints for a reading corner

Display this reader near bookshelves, above a desk or in a bedroom. A black frame can echo the kimono; pale wood can pick up the cream tones. Leave some space around the print so its intricate patterns remain clear.

Continue the literary theme with Kakinomoto no Hitomaro and Empress Jitō Tennō, two other works in our Utagawa Kuniyoshi print collection.