De Courtisane
19th century
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, often dubbed the 'last great master' of ukiyo-e, captures a moment of high-society glamour here. The courtesan, draped in a bold blue and red kimono with intricate patterns, glances back over her shoulder amidst a field of tall, purple irises. Her elaborate hairstyle is weighed down by golden ornaments, but the real status symbol is her remarkably long fingernails—a clear sign she never had to do manual labor. This print showcases Yoshitoshi's signature blend of traditional elegance and the vibrant, bold colors that defined the late 19th century, just before photography changed art forever.
- Technique
- Woodblock print
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