This is from the series titled Hokoku Goshiki Sumi (北国五色墨, Five Shaded Ink in the Northern Quarter). 'Hokoku' (北国) is a reference to the Yoshiwara (coming from its location north of Edo Castle), and 'Goshiki-zumi' (五色墨), literally 'five shades of black', is understood to be indicating five 'rankings' of the ladies in the series. The cartouches, shaped like ink sticks, are colored differently throughout the series.

The subtitle is Kiri-no-Musume; since Kiri means bottom class establishment, this is a girl working in such a house. Her simple hairstyle and kimono reflect her low rank. In spite of her difficult social position, she appears pleased as she holds a letter, presumably from a friend or lover.

While the image lacks gorgeousness compared to high ranking courtesans' images, this print shows high skill craftsmanship. The delicately carved hairlines, the intricate pattern on the undergarment's collar, and reproducing the original brush lines, all these show excellent craftsmanship.