Pillow Print from The Secret Language of the Courtesan

by Eisen (1790 - 1848)

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Pillow Print from The Secret Language of the Courtesan by Eisen (1790 - 1848)

Eisen (1790 - 1848) Japanese Woodblock Reprint
Pillow Print from The Secret Language of the Courtesan

Series; The Secret Language of the Courtesan

Classic Pillow Prints - One of the popular and favorite print styles from the late 18th and early 19th century was the pillow print. Set against lovely, traditional background settings, these finely designed old images usually depict a young couple in a private setting, playfully cuddling or resting before or after lovemaking. These prints were normally variations on that theme and reflect the sometimes slightly erotic nature of Japanese woodblock prints. The great Edo masters Utamaro, Kiyonaga, Toyonobu, Harunobu, and Toyokuni I all created pillow prints. Reprints of these wonderful old designs are a great opportunity to collect these classic images at a fraction of the price of an original.

Pillow Print from The Secret Language of the Courtesan - Lovely design from a series of twelve pillow prints by Eisen titled "The Secret Language of the Courtesan." These beautifully drawn images feature couples cuddling or resting before lovemaking, with an emphasis on the ornate patterns and fluid drapery of the elegant kimono fabrics. These prints fall under the category of abuna-e, literally "dangerous pictures," which are erotic or suggestive without being explicit. Wonderful Edo era designs, nicely detailed and attractively colored.

Artist - Eisen (1790 - 1848)

Image Size - 9 7/8" x 14 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Some faint spotting on reverse. Please see photos for details.

Pillow Print from The Secret Language of the Courtesan by Eisen (1790 - 1848)
Pillow Print from The Secret Language of the Courtesan by Eisen (1790 - 1848)