Artwork preview

Interior of an American Steamship

Utagawa Yoshikazu

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Colorful woodblock print depicting interior scenes of an American steamship. The image is divided into three main sections. The top section shows a deck with people standing in various directions; a covered area on the left and open space on the right. The bottom left section shows men standing on a deck or pier; a large blue-green object dominates the space. The bottom right section shows people sitting and standing inside, on a red floor; there are multiple levels and seating areas. Some people are dressed in Western-style clothing, and others in traditional Japanese attire. The color palette includes beige, blue, red, green, and black. The composition suggests a cross-section or cutaway view. The setting contrasts Western and Japanese architectural elements and cultural practices.

Artwork Details

Date
4th month, 1861
Medium
Triptych of woodblock prints; ink and color on paper
Culture
Japan
Dimensions
599 × 298 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette