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Iwai Kumesaburo II as a courtesan, c. 1830 (coloured woodblock print)
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Iwai Kumesaburo II as a courtesan, c. 1830 (coloured woodblock print)
FIT282750 Iwai Kumesaburo II as a courtesan, c.1830 (coloured woodblock print) by Kunisada, Utagawa (Toyokuni III) (1786-1865); Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; (add.info.: surimono depicting the courtesan standing beneath a night flowering cherry tree in Yoshiwara, the licensed district in Edo; The poem by Ryuotei Edo no Hananari praises her beauty by combining references to two famous Chinese and Japanese beauties from the past, Yang Kuei-fei and Ono no Komachi; ); eFitzwilliam Museum; Japanese, out of copyright
Media ID 23211526
© Fitzwilliam Museum / Bridgeman Images
Performer Robe Theatrical Ukiyo E
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This coloured woodblock print, titled "Iwai Kumesaburo II as a courtesan" transports us back to the vibrant world of Edo-era Japan. Created by Kunisada, Utagawa (Toyokuni III) in approximately 1830, this exquisite piece is now housed at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge. In this surimono artwork, we see Iwai Kumesaburo II depicted as a courtesan standing gracefully beneath a night flowering cherry tree in Yoshiwara, the licensed district of Edo. The artist skillfully combines elements from Chinese and Japanese beauty traditions through a poem written by Ryuotei Edo no Hananari. This poetic tribute praises her exceptional beauty by drawing parallels between two renowned historical beauties: Yang Kuei-fei from China and Ono no Komachi from Japan. The intricate details of the costume worn by Iwai Kumesaburo II add depth and character to this portrayal. The flowing robe drapes elegantly around her figure while reflecting the theatrical nature of her profession. As an actor on stage, she embodies not only her own persona but also assumes various characters throughout performances. This mesmerizing print captures the essence of ukiyo-e art with its delicate engravings and meticulous attention to detail. It serves as a testament to both the artistic talent of Kunisada and the rich cultural heritage that thrived during Japan's Edo period.
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