National Museum of Asian Art
Oiran
Numata Gessai 沼田月斎 (1787-1864) · late 18th-early19th century
Fantasy and reality meet in the many images of courtesans and kabuki actors in the “floating world” (ukiyo) of Edo and other urban centers. Prints for the mass market and paintings for more privileged owners celebrated the beauty and artistic abilities of high-class courtesans and geisha, who were often skilled in poetry, calligraphy, music, and dance. Here, a seated courtesan relaxes for a moment, enfolded in her loosely wrapped kimono.
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