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Young women and geisha on an Edo street, 18th century
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Young women and geisha on an Edo street, 18th century
Scene outside an office for servant placement with the entrance to a female bathhouse. An older woman talks to a nanny with baby and other working women. Two young town geisha (machigeisha) and flower seller walk past the baths entrance.. Handcoloured ukiyo-e woodblock print by Toyokuni Utagawa from Shikitei Sanbas Ehon Imayo Sugata (Picture Book of the Modern Forms and Figures, Tokyo, 1916. Reprint of the original from 1802
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Media ID 23392244
© Florilegius
Artisan Business Cartouche Ehon Figures Forms Geisha Glue Imayo Lifestyle Pupil Sanba Seller Shikitei Sugata Teacher Toyokuni Ukiyo Utagawa Woodblock Woodcut Nori
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In this handcoloured ukiyo-e woodblock print by Toyokuni Utagawa, titled "Scene outside an office for servant placement with the entrance to a female bathhouse" from the Picture Book of Modern Forms and Figures (Imayo Sugata), we are transported back to the bustling streets of Edo, Japan during the 18th century. The scene unfolds before us as a group of young women and geisha make their way down the street, their vibrant colours and intricate patterns standing out against the muted tones of the wooden buildings and cobblestone streets. At the heart of the scene, an older woman engages in a conversation with a nanny, who cradles a baby in her arms. Nearby, other working women huddle together, likely discussing their daily tasks or sharing news from the community. The entrance to a female bathhouse can be seen in the background, a symbol of the importance of cleanliness and social rituals in Edo society. Two young town geisha, or machigeisha, gracefully walk past the bathhouse entrance, their elaborate hairstyles and elegant kimonos adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colours. A flower seller, holding a tray of fresh blossoms, follows behind them, her cart laden with nori and glue, suggesting that she may be selling supplies for the preparation of sushi or other traditional Japanese dishes. The artisan shops and small businesses that line the street add to the lively atmosphere, with the sounds of hammers and saws ringing out from one, and the scent of freshly baked bread wafting from another. The cartouche at the top of the print bears the signature of the artist, Toyokuni Utagawa, and the title of the work, reminding us of the rich artistic traditions that flourished during this period in Japanese history. This stunning print offers a glimpse into the daily life of Edo society, showcasing the fashion, costume, and lifestyle of the time, as well as the vibrant and diverse community that thrived in this fascinating era.
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