Ryukoku Hishikawa, Courtesan, Kimono Design
Artist: Ryukoku Hishikawa (fl.1801-18)
Title: Courtesan
Date: early 17th century
Size: (T)38.1 x 25 (B) 37.7 x 24.9 cm
Original Japanese woodblock print.
Courtesans of Edo period Japan were not only skilled in serving a male customer, but they were also experts in dance, music, conversation, and other kinds of entertainment. They operated within the licensed quarters, such as the Yoshiwara district. They had a complex system of ranks, etiquette, and procedures. A courtesan would earn her funds not only for herself, but also for her entire entourage, e.g. attendants, younger courtesans-in-training.
This courtesan is dressed in an elaborate kimono with chrysanthemum design. She wears lacquered koma-geta, a tall traditional Japanese footwear of high-ranking courtesans.
Ryukoku Hishikawa
No descriptionPrint Format | Kakemono-e (Scroll) |
---|---|
Artist | Ryukoku Hishikawa |
Subject | Beauty & Female, Kimono Design |
Dimensions | (T)38.1 x 25 (B) 37.7 x 24.9 cm |
Condition Report | Wear and soiling, faded, paper residue on the back, minor stains due to old glue. |
Folders | In Store, FE |