Kuwagata Keisai (鍬形蕙斎)

Kuwagata Keisai (鍬形蕙斎) was an artist whose documented activity spanned the late eighteenth century, specifically between 1767 and 1789. His representation in major Western collections solidifies his importance in historical printmaking; fifteen Kuwagata Keisai (鍬形蕙斎) prints are currently held in museum collections, including works preserved at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The preserved prints demonstrate a range of subject matter encompassing historical narratives, genre scenes, and figure studies. Notable works include the dramatic historical piece Minamoto Yoshitsune and His Retainer, the Monk Benkei, Putting to Flight the Ghost of Taira no Tomomori, the topographical view Ryogoku Bridge, and the genre scene Children in the Sanno Festival. Other works, such as Three Young Women in a Garden where Nadeshiko Pinks are Growing and Bai tou weng, showcase attention to daily life and portraiture.

The availability of these works through institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art ensures the preservation of museum-quality examples for study. Much of this historical material is now in the public domain, allowing researchers and enthusiasts to access high-quality prints derived from the original works.