Reading by the moon (Dokusho no tsuki) — History & Facts
In Reading by the moon (Dokusho no tsuki), we see a tranquil night scene illuminated by soft moonlight. A woman is depicted sitting comfortably, engrossed in her reading. The colors are muted, with shades of blue and gray dominating the composition, creating a serene atmosphere.
The background features delicate patterns that enhance the overall calmness of the scene. The artwork is a woodblock print, a traditional Japanese technique that allows for intricate details and vibrant colors. The lines are finely etched, showcasing Yoshitoshi's skill in capturing the delicate features of the woman and the subtle play of light. Viewers can appreciate the careful layering of colors that brings depth to the image.
The print exemplifies the Ukiyo-e style, which focuses on scenes of everyday life and beauty. Tsukioka Yoshitoshi was a prominent figure in the Ukiyo-e movement during the late 19th century. This work reflects his innovative approach to traditional woodblock printing, emphasizing emotional depth and narrative. An interesting fact about this piece is that it captures a moment of quiet reflection, a theme that resonates with many of Yoshitoshi's works.
His ability to convey intimacy and stillness in a fleeting moment is what makes this print notable.
More Artworks by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Frost fills the air and the autumn air is still/lines of returning geese cross the moon in the third hour-Kenshin, from the series Twelve Aspects of the Moon
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Fukami Jikyu in maanlicht
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Looking Shy; The Manners of a Young Girl of the Meiji Era
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The Lonely House on Adachi Moor in Northern Japan
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Inaba Mountain moon (Inabayama no tsuki)
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Omori Hikoshichi
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

One Hundred Aspects of the Moon
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The Saga Incident
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Bon Festival Moon (Bon no tsuki)
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Preparing to Take a Stroll; The Wife of a Nobleman of the Meiji Period
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
More Genre Scene Art

Banquet of the Officers of the St George Civic Guard
Frans Hals

Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son
Rembrandt van Rijn

Bal du moulin de la Galette
Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Quadrille at the Moulin Rouge
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

A Burial at Ornans
Gustave Courbet

When Will You Marry?
Paul Gauguin
