This type of print shows a woman of the pleasure quarters. The Edo
period red-light districts were officially sanctioned, however, they
weren't the playground for just anyone. The popular top-class geishas of
the day (known as 'oiran') were depicted in this type of print. In
ukiyo-e woodblock prints, this close-up portrait view of the upper body
is known as an okubi-e (bust portrait). Fine Condition. Slight indentation on face, not torn. Original untrimmed state. Gorgeous mica background. Light
embossing. No tears, folds, stains, creases or foxing. Light embossing. This edition a posthumous Showa-Era restrike.
In original windowed folder. Photo above is a scan of the original. Sheet size is 22x31.5cm.
|