Item from the Mokuhankan Flea Market

Courtesans of the Obishiya

Size: 31.5cm by 44.5cm (12.40 in by 17.52 in) | Enlargement | Shipping Code: [L] ?

Designer: Katsukawa Shunsho

Era: Edo | Currency: $ / £ / €

Price: ¥ 12,000$ 94.00£ 83.75€ 96.75 [Item has been sold]

Description: From the book “Mirror of Beautiful Women of the Pleasure Quarters (Seiro bijin awase sugata kagami),” vol. 2.

This print depicts a group of four courtesans of the Obishiya that are viewing Mt. Fuji from a balcony. They are all wearing kimonos with floral and nature motifs, all harmonized with a pink, brown, white, and touches of a black palette. They are combed with traditional wigs wearing their hair up and decorated with multiple combs.

The gesture used by Shunsho is very expressive and helps understand the scene: the courtesan standing up has his hand on her mouth showing she is listening with attention to the other two ladies' conversation. The courtesan next to her is holding what seems to be a saber and the one at the far right seems to be whispering her a secret as she has her sleeve in front of her mouth.

The courtesan at the far left is the one who is observing more attentive Mount Fuji (in the background) and deep in thought. Behind them, we can perceive a tatami room with some tea waiting for them.

This print is toned overall and has some spots and creases but is in good condition for the age remaining nice colors.

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