The Hour of the Snake

"The Hour of the Snake" is part of Seirō Jūnitoki Tsuzuki, a series of twelve ukiyo-e prints created by Utamaro around 1794. This genre painting captures scenes of courtesans in the Yoshiwara pleasure district, each representing a different hour of the traditional Japanese twelve-hour clock system. The series artfully combines vibrant woodblock techniques with an intimate portrayal of daily life, emphasizing the elegance and transient beauty of the courtesans as they observe their hourly routines. Utamaro’s work exemplifies the refinement and storytelling characteristic of ukiyo-e, providing a glimpse into Edo-period pleasures and social culture.