Chiyoda Inner Palace - First published from 1894 - 1897, Chikanobu's "Chiyoda Inner Palace" (Chiyoda no Ooku) series depicts the lives of women in Edo Castle prior to the Meiji Restoration, when it was home to the shogun and his court. Edo Castle was also known as Chiyoda Castle, and the series includes 40 triptychs. The Inner Palace area housed the shogun's wife and unmarried daughters, his male heir, and many ladies-in-waiting and servants. These lovely triptychs illustrate seasonal activities both inside and outside of the women's private quarters, and a variety of ceremonies, rituals, and pastimes. The beauties are elegantly attired as they go about their daily lives, with wonderful attention and detail given to their sumptuous kimono and obi fabrics. Many designs include deluxe printing techniques such as burnishing, embossing, and mica or metallic pigment. Chikanobu's lovely "Chiyoda Inner Palace" series beautifully captures the world of upper-class women in mid-nineteenth century Japan.

Styling Hair, 1894 - Lovely triptych of an elegant young lady seated before a lacquered mirror stand, having her hair styled by an attendant. At right, other servants prepare her clothing, one holding a folded robe while the other readies a red kimono patterned with pink flowers. A beautiful kimono shaded from aqua to orange hangs on a frame behind them. A wonderful look at the intimate ritual of hairdressing, with attractive color and fine detail, including delicate embossing on the white kimono collars and trim.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Vertical folds between panels. Slight toning, soiling, and rubbing, a few ripples and creases, light lines where backing papers meet. Please see photos for details.