Crossing Nihonbashi Bridge c. 1790

This is "Crossing Nihonbashi Bridge," a late 18th-century polychrome woodblock print made by Katsukawa Shunchō in Japan. This work is part of the Ukiyo-e tradition, which translates as "pictures of the floating world." These images offer us a glimpse into the urban centers of Edo-period Japan. The women depicted here, likely courtesans, embody a particular ideal of beauty and style popular at the time. Their elaborate kimonos, hairstyles, and carefully chosen accessories reflect the fashion trends and social hierarchies of the era. The Nihonbashi Bridge itself was a vital part of the city, serving as a hub for commerce and transportation. Prints such as these were often produced for a growing urban middle class, eager to consume images of fashionable life and entertainment. The prints, published and distributed to the public, offer a unique perspective on the cultural values and social dynamics of Edo-period Japan.