Japan: 'Abalone Divers / The Abalone Fisherwomen'. Ukiyo-e woodblock triptych print by Kitagawa Utamaro (c. 1753 - 31 October 1806), c. 1797-1798. The title would appear to be a double entendre, as few 'abalone divers' would have dressed, let alone looked, like these 'bijin' beauties. Kitagawa Utamaro was a Japanese printmaker and painter, who is considered one of the greatest artists of woodblock prints (ukiyo-e). He is known especially for his masterfully composed studies of women, known as bijinga. He also produced nature studies, particularly illustrated books of insects.

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