Female Entertainer with Shamisen 1800 - 1828

This is a Japanese hanging scroll painting, made by Teisai Hokuba, dating back to the late 18th or early 19th century. It's crafted from ink and color on silk. Silk, a luxurious material, speaks to the painting's intended audience. The artist has meticulously rendered the female entertainer and the details of her surroundings, using fine brushstrokes and subtle gradations of color. Look at the way the silk absorbs the ink, creating soft edges and delicate textures. The process of silk painting demands a high level of skill, patience, and control, qualities that were highly valued in Japanese art. The choice of silk as a ground is significant. Silk production and trade were important aspects of the Japanese economy and cultural exchange. This painting not only reflects the artist's mastery of his medium, but also hints at the social and economic context in which it was created. By appreciating the materials and techniques involved, we can gain a deeper understanding of the painting's meaning and significance, moving beyond conventional notions of art.