Object Title:
After the Bath: Courtesan Chö of the Tea House Kyö-ögiya
Series Title:
Shimanouchi Costume Parade (Nerimono)
Date:
1830 c.
Artist:
Ryüsai (Ryütei) Shigeharu
Active:
1821-1849
Medium:
Color woodblock print Technique: Nishiki-e (Woodblock print with color blocks)
Credit Line:
Gift of Mrs. Goodale, 1934 (10116)
Object Number:
10116
Other Title:
Kanji : 湯あがり 京扇屋てふ Series Kanji : 島ノ内 ねり物
Description:
This print depicts a courtesan dressed in the unique “after the bath” style for the annual costume parade held in Shimanouchi, Osaka. Although courtesans frequently disguised themselves as well known characters-such as popular Kabuki actors or historical figures-a few used the “after the bath” theme, which included a disheveled appearance, as if the woman had just stepped out of the bath, and into an untied kimono, and accessories, such as a towel. This sensual style fueled people's desires to know more about the private lives of such celebrities. (from Kamigata-e exhibition 4/1/08-)
