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In the world of Japanese woodblock printmaking, few artists hold as pivotal a place as Suzuki Harunobu (1724–1770). Celebrated as the pioneer of nishiki-e, the full color woodblock print, Harunobu transformed the visual language of Edo period art. Before his innovations, prints were typically rendered in monochrome or with limited hand applied color. But with the advent of multiple block printing around 1765, Harunobu introduced rich, layered hues that brought newfound elegance, delicacy, and poetic resonance to ukiyo-e.

His refined aesthetic, marked by graceful figures, gentle gestures, and scenes of poetic allusion, capture the imagination. Harunobu’s prints are more than decorative artworks; they are visual poems, often laden with seasonal references and classical literary themes.

We are pleased to present two exceptional examples in our Connoisseurs’ Corner exhibition:

• “Gathering Spring Flowers,” c. 1767 showcases Harunobu’s command of seasonal symbolism and his signature depiction of willowy, idealized women engaged in playful daily moments.
• “The Jewel River at Chofu,” c. 1768 reflects his deep engagement with classical poetry and the Six Jewel Rivers theme, using subtle color gradation and elegant composition to evoke a sense of timeless tranquility.

These works are outstanding examples of Harunobu’s genius and also rarely seen works surviving to this day in their original glorious colors from the dawn of nishiki-e printing, an innovation that redefined Japanese art and inspired generations of artists to come.

As cornerstones of the genre, Harunobu’s prints are essential to any serious collection and represent a foundational chapter in the history of Ukiyo-e. We invite collectors and connoisseurs to explore these masterworks, which stand at the very origin of Japan’s rich printmaking tradition.