Utagawa Kunisada (歌川国貞) / Toyokuni III (三代豊国) (artist 1786 – 01/12/1865)
An oiran of the Kanayama house (金山屋) about to step into her getas
ca 1820
10 in x 14.75 in (Overall dimensions) Japanese color woodblock print
Signed: Kōchōrō Kunisada ga
香蝶楼国貞画
Publisher: Nishimuraya Yohachi
(Marks 391 - seal 01-008)
Censor's seal: kiwame
This Kunisada is a bit odd, mainly due to the diminutive size of the woman enveloped in her winter robes. She seems a bit small. (JSV)
Judging by the robes this high ranking courtesan is wearing it is probably winter time. Her blue kimono is decorated with one of the symbols of the house she is employed by. The kanzashi or elaborate hairpins also display this motif. The other motifs found on her robes are sea shells and stylized waves.
On the left side of this print is a burnt orange noren or sign curtain which advertises the name of this house of prostitution.
Nishimuraya Yohachi (西村屋与八) (publisher)
beautiful women (bijin-ga - 美人画) (genre)