Girls pearl-divers 

Kitagawa Utamaro created this woodblock print titled, "Girls pearl-divers," during the Edo period, a time of economic growth, strict social order and isolationist foreign policies in Japan. Here, Utamaro challenges traditional representations of women. Typically, women are portrayed in domestic settings, but in "Girls pearl-divers" they are depicted as strong, independent workers. The artist captures a moment of respite after diving, which gives us a window into their daily lives and labor. Their bodies are revealed, but not overtly sexualized, rather, their exposure humanizes them, showing their physical strength and resilience, particularly considering the economic constraints of the period. By illustrating women in the unconventional role of pearl divers, Utamaro's work resonates emotionally, provoking reflection on gender roles. The artist develops alternative narratives, challenging the era’s norms, while underscoring the beauty and dignity of working women.