The Twenty-four Hours at Shinbashi and Yanagibashi - The Shinbashi and Yanagibashi were famous pleasure quarters in Tokyo. The geisha within were fascinating to the public and numerous series were created detailing the lives they led. Composed of twenty-four prints, each design in this series depicts the activities of a different geisha at a specific hour of the day. It was commissioned and published from 1880 to 1881, with writer-journalist Takabatakae Ransen (1838 - 85) composing the text in the insets on each print. This captivating series by Yoshitoshi strongly cemented his place in the genre of bijin-ga, pictures of beautiful women.

Throughout the series are indicators of the increasing influence of Western cultures on Japan, from the Western-style newspapers mentioned to the very nature of the twenty-four-hour clock itself. This series is an excellent opportunity for those interested in Western culture influences on Japan and for Yoshitoshi collectors alike. Don't miss out on these incredible pieces!

6 p.m. - Maiko with Towels and Hair Ornaments - Attractive image of a maiko or apprentice geisha carrying a stack of folded towels tied with a red ribbon and adorned with hair ornaments, a gift from a high-ranking patron. She grins happily as she looks over her shoulder, wearing a dark blue violet kimono with a tiny white pattern tied with a turquoise obi. The niche behind her holds a picture of a monk reading a scroll, perhaps a scene from the popular kabuki play "The Subscription List," and a basket vase on a rustic wooden support at left holds a blossoming purple iris. A charming subject with fine detail in the hair and soft pink shading about the eyes.

Translation of Inset Text:

The recluse with his leisure time
Shepherds every minute of the day,
But his theatre-loving lady
Finds that evening comes too soon.

Even before the gaslights are lit,
He has paid the teahouse bill,
Including tips,
And given gifts of towels
And hair ornaments
To grateful apprentice geisha.

Then he goes out on a shopping spree,
Accompanied by a gaggle
Of grateful girls.

Isn't that a gentleman of the highest rank?
Higher than the flight
Of the hototogisu
Above the Honganji Hall
Across the river?

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 13 1/8" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. Toning, slight soiling, a few spots. Please see photos for details. Good overall.