Seated Man Plucking Beard with Standing Woman 1741

Ogawa Ritsuō created this painting on paper, “Seated Man Plucking Beard with Standing Woman,” sometime between the 17th and 18th centuries. Ogawa Ritsuō was a versatile artist in the Edo period, known for his innovative use of materials and techniques. The artwork presents a seemingly intimate, yet ambiguous, encounter. The woman, in her elaborate kimono, has a subservient posture, and the man appears relaxed in his attire while plucking his beard. It may be a depiction of grooming rituals, which were important in Edo society, particularly for men of status, while simultaneously representing an act of servitude. As such, the painting subtly hints at the power dynamics inherent in gender and social roles. Consider how the artist captures a moment of everyday life, yet also engages with the societal expectations and power dynamics of his time. It's an intimate glimpse into a world where beauty, status, and gender intertwine.