Furuichi Dance (No. 2 of a Set of Four) - Yashima Gakutei

A refined surimono woodblock print by Yashima Gakutei, depicting two dancers in a rhythmic performance with traditional motifs.

This woodblock print by Yashima Gakutei belongs to the genre of surimono, which were privately commissioned prints often distributed among members of poetry clubs. As a student of Totoya Hokkei and Katsushika Hokusai, Gakutei became known for his technical precision and his ability to incorporate complex literary references into his compositions. This work depicts two dancers performing the Furuichi dance, a traditional performance associated with the Ise region. The dancers are shown in identical poses, creating a sense of rhythmic movement across the horizontal plane. Their kimonos feature a repeating wheel motif, which is echoed in the decorative border at the bottom of the print. Above them, a row of paper lanterns hangs against a dark background, providing a contrast to the lighter tones of the figures and the architectural elements. The inclusion of calligraphy in the upper section suggests the print was produced for a specific social or literary occasion, where the visual imagery complemented the accompanying verse. The composition is balanced, with the figures arranged to guide the eye across the scene. The use of colour is restrained, relying on a palette of muted reds, soft greys, and deep blues to define the forms. The print demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship involved in the production of surimono, including the use of embossing and metallic pigments, which were common in such luxury editions. The flat perspective and clear outlines are characteristic of the Ukiyo-e style, yet the specific subject matter and the refined execution mark this as a distinct example of Gakutei's output during the early nineteenth century.