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Courtesan Reading a Letter, early 1800s. Creator: Teisai Hokuba (Japanese, 1771-1844); Ota Nanpo
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Courtesan Reading a Letter, early 1800s. Creator: Teisai Hokuba (Japanese, 1771-1844); Ota Nanpo
Courtesan Reading a Letter, early 1800s. Teisai Hokuba, a disciple of the famed painter and print designer Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), is best known for his private edition poetry-print designs, or surimono, and hanging scroll paintings. The screen format is unusual for him. On the right panel, he has depicted a courtesan reading a letter, a popular theme in ukiyo-e painting. On the left panel, Ota Nanpo, a writer in Hokubas circle, brushed a poem that humorously compares the courtesan to the legendary 9th-century poet Ono no Komachi: Having been asked to stay over, I stayed on-and for a good reason: Its way past midnight [closing time in the Yoshiwara] And the lady is that (legendary implorer) Amagoi Komachi
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Media ID 19631461
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1615 1868 Ink And Colour On Paper Teisai Hokuba 1749 1823 1771 1844
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This print titled "Courtesan Reading a Letter" showcases the artistic brilliance of Teisai Hokuba, a disciple of the renowned Katsushika Hokusai. While Hokuba is primarily known for his poetry-print designs and hanging scroll paintings, this screen format piece stands out as an exceptional creation. The right panel portrays a courtesan engrossed in reading a letter, an ever-popular subject in ukiyo-e painting. The left panel features Ota Nanpo's witty poem, adding an extra layer of depth to the artwork. In this humorous verse, Nanpo compares the courtesan to Ono no Komachi, a legendary poet from the 9th century. The poem playfully describes how the courtesan stayed overnight for good reason - it was well past midnight when Yoshiwara closed its doors. Drawing inspiration from Amagoi Komachi's imploring nature, Nanpo cleverly intertwines history with contemporary themes. Created during Japan's Edo period (1615-1868), this heritage art piece exemplifies Hokuba's mastery over ink and color on paper. The two-panel folding screen format adds elegance and versatility to its display options. Preserved at The Cleveland Museum of Art, this exquisite print not only captures the beauty and grace of Japanese culture but also serves as a testament to Hokuba's artistic prowess.
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