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Two geishas, stove and shamisen, Japan
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Two geishas, stove and shamisen, Japan
Two geishas, stove and shamisen (a three-stringed musical instrument), Japan. Date: circa 1890s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14138388
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Pump Park Photography
Geisha Geishas Instrument Kettle Musician Samisen Shamisen Stove Stringed Musical Racial
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This photograph, taken in Japan during the late 1890s, presents a tranquil moment in the lives of two geishas as they prepare for a performance. The women, dressed in their traditional kimonos and intricate makeup, sit side by side near a stove, warming up their shamisens, a three-stringed musical instrument essential to their art. The shamisen, with its distinctive bridge and long neck, lies between them, its strings taut and ready for plucking. Geishas, or 'artists of the tea house,' were renowned for their skills in music, dance, and conversation, providing entertainment for Japan's elite. Their elaborate costumes, makeup, and hairstyles were all part of the allure that drew patrons to their performances. The presence of the stove suggests that the geishas are preparing for a tea ceremony, an integral part of Japanese culture. The ceremony, which emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, is a perfect complement to the refined art of geisha performance. This photograph offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of geishas during the late 19th century, providing a window into a rich and complex cultural tradition. The vintage image, with its warm tones and intricate details, invites us to explore the history and beauty of Japan's artistic heritage.
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