Print 1800 - 1865

This woodblock print was created in nineteenth-century Japan by Utagawa Kunisada, an artist deeply embedded in the floating world of the Edo period. Kunisada lived in a society marked by rigid social hierarchies. Yet, his art offers glimpses into the vibrant lives of people navigating the constraints of their time. Here, we see a courtesan, a woman whose position straddled the line between artist and entertainer, as she is being helped to dress. Note the intricate patterns of her kimono, and the subtle depiction of her exposed feet which both hint at her sensuality, but also at her vulnerability. The bamboo in the background may symbolize resilience, reflecting the complex roles women occupied in Japanese society. Kunisada's ability to capture fleeting moments allows us to reflect on themes of identity, beauty, and the realities of life during the Edo period. Through this artwork, we gain insight into the human stories that shaped the culture of the time, inviting us to appreciate the artistry and social commentary woven into this print.