Did Utamaro ever face criticism or punishment for his works?
No, his works were always accepted
Yes, he was criticised but never punished
Yes, he was even arrested for it
His works were forbidden in Japan
Answer
Utamaro was arrested in 1768 for producing shunga (erotic art). The authorities were concerned that his work was becoming too explicit and that it was encouraging people to behave immorally. Utamaro was imprisoned for a short time, and his prints were confiscated.
Unveiling Utamaro: Test Your Knowledge About the Master of Ukiyo-e