Utagawa Kuniyasu (歌川国安) (artist 1794 – 1832)
Bijin looking at the full moon
1820s
9.5 in x 14.25 in (Overall dimensions) Japanese woodblock print
Signed. Kuniyasu hitsu (国安筆)
Publisher: Probably Yama-Mura
(Marks U403 - seal not listed but closest to 04-016) Censor's seal: kiwame
The theme of this print is an ancient one of wild geese flying near a harvest moon. It is prominent in both Chinese and Japanese poetry and lore. The fan lying by the woman shows of geese descending which may also be a reference to another classical theme.
The woman's tobacco pouch lying on the ground near her is meant to mimic the fabric of here robe. Perhaps it is a chosen accessory much as a woman today would choose her shoes, purse or a scarf to look the most stylish.
The brazier strengthens the argument that this print hints at the coming of Autumn.
There is also another possible interpretation: this may be a mitate of Returning boats to Yabase on Lake Biwa. Notice the small sailboats in the background.
beautiful woman picture (bijin-ga - 美人画) (genre)
mitate-e (見立て絵) (genre)
Yama-Mura (publisher)
kari (wild geese - 雁) (genre)