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Woman playing a Koto, Japan
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Woman playing a Koto, Japan
Woman playing a Koto, the national musical instrument of Japan, usually with 13 strings. Date: circa 1890s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14138602
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Pump Park Photography
Backdrop Fuji Fujiyama Instrument Koto Mount Musician Stringed Strings Vase Musical Racial
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken circa 1890s, captures the essence of Japanese culture with its depiction of a woman gracefully playing the national musical instrument, the Koto. The Koto is a 13-stringed, bridge-less, and fretted instrument, often played with plectrums worn on the thumb and index finger. The woman's concentration and poise as she plucks the strings are evident, transporting us to a bygone era. The interior of the room, adorned with a painted backdrop of Mount Fuji and a vase filled with flowers, adds to the authenticity of the scene. The woman wears a traditional Japanese costume, adding to the ethnic and racial type of the image. The vintage aesthetic is further emphasized by the use of natural lighting and the muted colors of the photograph. The Koto holds a significant place in Japanese history, with its origins dating back to the 13th century. It has been used in various forms of traditional Japanese music, including Gagaku, Noh, and Kabuki. This photograph serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Japan and the importance of music in expressing its history and identity. The photograph's intricate details and the woman's serene expression make it a timeless piece that continues to captivate viewers even today. The snow-capped Mount Fuji in the background adds a sense of tranquility and completeness to the scene, making it a beautiful and evocative representation of Japanese art and culture in the late 19th century.
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