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Utamaro's "No. 2 Bird" - Kirin Painting

This Japanese woodblock print, attributed to Utamaro, depicts a scene from the creation of a painting. On the left, a man kneels before a vibrant, mythical Kirin bird, seemingly in the process of painting it. The bird is rendered with intricate detail, showcasing its elaborate plumage in shades of red, green, and gold. To the right, a group of women, dressed in traditional kimonos, peer into the room, observing the artistic endeavor with curiosity. Another figure, possibly a monk, kneels in the foreground, tending to a censer. The artwork is presented as an open book, with handwritten annotations in English providing context about the artist and subject matter. The scene is rich in cultural detail, offering a glimpse into Japanese art and storytelling traditions.

Colour palette