The Floating World Takes Shape

Suzuki Harunobu

Evening Chime of the Clock

c. 1766

Woodblock print; ink and color on paper, 28.3 × 17.9 cm. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Fresh from the bath, a woman sits on the veranda; her maid turns as the clock strikes.

• Slanting parallel lines carry the eye into the room's private space.
• The chime may hint at a lover's coming visit.
• From Eight Parlor Views: the temple bell of China's classic Eight Views becomes a household clock.

Image: The Met Open Access · Public domain (Met Open Access)