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Dressed in White on the Eighth Month, Michiharu of the Tsutayah, 1764
Woodblock Print
14.6 x 10
in
Description: Bijinga.The courtesan Michiharu of the Tsuruya walking with her apprentice (shinzo) and two young attendants (kamuro).The curatorial notes on this print at the Honolulu Museum of Art reads: "The Tayü (leading courtesan) Michiharu of the brothel Tsutaya is depicted in a procession with three attendants. An inscription reading “White garments of the eighth month” suggests that it is summertime, which is exceptional for the series. As in the other prints from this famous series, the töröbin hairstyle of the beauties helps date the series to the second half of the 1770s. The obi (sash) shows the gorgeous design of a peacock. This series represents the pinnacle of Koryüsai’s artistic achievement. (from "VOGUE in Japan: Edo Fashion through Japanese prints" exhibition 07/30/08-)" The shinz? walking behind Michiharu is wearing an obi decorated with fans, some open, some closed. From top to bottom the open fans show chrysanthemums, thistles - possibly the demon thistle or oni azami, and pine branches.
Issued: 1777-78
Edition: 1777-78
Condition: very fine color state and condition, light centerfold, small archival tapes at top and bottom corners verso
Signed: within image
Sealed:Publisher Nishimuraya Yohachi (Eijud?)
Special Seal: Henri Vever
Series:'Hinagata wakanano hatsu-moyo' (Models for Fashion:New Years Deigns as Fresh as Young Leaves)
$4,800