Preface 1790

This preface was produced by Kitagawa Utamaro, who lived from around 1753 to 1806. Utamaro was a leading printmaker of the Ukiyo-e style, which translates to "pictures of the floating world." Ukiyo-e art flourished during the Edo period, a time when the rigid social hierarchy of the Tokugawa shogunate was increasingly challenged by the merchant class who sought pleasure and freedom in the entertainment districts. The "floating world" depicted in Utamaro's prints served as an escape from the strict rules of the time. Working within this context, Utamaro focused on bijinga, images of beautiful women, often portraying courtesans, geishas, and everyday women in intimate, domestic settings. By emphasizing the beauty, fashion, and leisure activities of women, Utamaro offered a perspective that challenged traditional representations. He developed alternative narratives and celebrated marginalized members of society. While the women he portrayed weren't always free, Utamaro highlighted their emotions and personal lives.