Shunsen Katsukawa, Courtesan, Kimono Design
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Artist: Shunsen Katsukawa (1762-1830)
Title: Courtesan
Date: early 19th century
Size: (T) 37.9 24.6 (B) 36.4 x 24.6 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's hair is done in elaborate manner with large hairpins called kanzashi. These were often made from tortoiseshell, silver, gold and gemstones, worn in a number of heavily-waxed hairstyles.
| Print Format | Diptych |
|---|---|
| Artist Name | Shunsen Katsukawa |
| Title | Courtesan |
| Subject | Beauty & Female, Kimono Design |
| Dimensions | (T) 37.9 24.6 (B) 36.4 x 24.6 cm |
| Condition Report | Paper residue on the back, light wear and soiling, stains on left top of the top panel due to old glue, light paper loss on left of the top panel. |
