Courtesans in the Yoshiwara, 1859

by Kunisada II (1786 - 1864)

Current Status

Courtesans in the Yoshiwara, 1859 by Kunisada II (1786 - 1864)

Original Kunisada II (1786 - 1864) Japanese Woodblock Print
Courtesans in the Yoshiwara, 1859

Comments - Lovely scene of courtesans strolling through the Yoshiwara at night, accompanied by their kamuro or child apprentices in matching attire. The women smile at each other as they walk, the beauty at left wearing an outer robe depicting white rats and money, the fur of the animals lightly embossed. The courtesan in the center wears a kimono patterned with a crane in flight, and an obi decorated with a turtle with long moss growing from its shell, a symbol of longevity. The black kimono at right has a striking image of a leaping carp, worn over red under robes tied with an obi depicting a dragon, clouds, and waves. A low fence encloses a garden behind them filled with flowering yellow shrubs and blossoming cherry trees. A classic Edo era beauty triptych, detailed with embossing on the white kimono collars and trim.

Artist - Kunisada II (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. Horizontal centerfold, diagonal folds. Small losses at corners, wormholes, thinning spot, repaired. Creasing, slight toning and soiling. Please see photos for details.

Courtesans in the Yoshiwara, 1859 by Kunisada II (1786 - 1864)
Courtesans in the Yoshiwara, 1859 by Kunisada II (1786 - 1864)

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