Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on March 2012

Synonymous with Japanese artistry, ukiyo-e prints reached perfection in the Edo era, with these three pioneers helping nurture the art form to maturity. Haranobu was one of the first to depict daily Edo life, and invented the nishiki-e style, which added varied colors. Kiyonaga became known for depicting beauties with the proportions of runway models, while Utamaro pioneered the close-up, becoming the most revered painter of women for his insights into their inner lives.

Ukiyo-e Ota Memorial Museum of Art, until Apr 26 (listing).