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Kitagawa Utamaro

Towing a Barge in the Snow, from the album The Silver World

1790
Woodblock print; oban
38.6 × 26.1 cm (15.2 × 10.3 in)

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In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

The subtle use of various shades of gray give this print the appearance of a watercolor. The abundance of snow on the bridges, hats, trees, and mountains creates an air of stillness that contrasts with the men laboring against the elements.

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