Young Lady Taking a Lesson on the Shamisen 1615 - 1868

This woodblock print, "Young Lady Taking a Lesson on the Shamisen," was created by Nishikawa Sukenobu. Observe how the composition delicately balances the figures of the lady and her instructor in a vertical arrangement. Sukenobu employs soft, muted colors and fine lines to define the forms and patterns of their garments. Notice the use of flat perspective, characteristic of Ukiyo-e prints, where depth is suggested through the layering of shapes rather than traditional Western vanishing points. Sukenobu masterfully captures the textures of the clothing, contrasting the intricate floral patterns of the lady’s kimono with the geometric motifs on the instructor’s robe. This juxtaposition invites us to interpret the social dynamics at play, where the visual codes reflect status and cultural values. The visual harmony and elegance of the print not only provide aesthetic pleasure but also invite a deeper contemplation of the cultural and social contexts of 18th-century Japan, as seen through the sophisticated interplay of line, color, and form.