Kitagawa Utamaro (ca. 1753 - October 31, 1806) was a Japanese printmaker and painter who is considered one of the greatest artists of woodblock prints (ukiyo-e). His name was romanised archaically as Outamaro. He is known especially for his masterfully composed studies of women, known as bijinga. He also produced nature studies, particularly illustrated books of insects.

This print, Ase o fuku onna (woman wiping sweat) is a fine example of bijinga. The literal meaning of bijin is beautiful person, but in practice beautiful woman; ga means picture. Onna is woman and ase is sweat.