Courtesans of the Chôjiya: Hinatsuru and Her Attendant
Kitagawa Utamaro
Description
The kneeling figure in the foreground is the grand courtesan, Hinatsuru, which means “young crane.” Her kamuro (attendant) is arranging a vase of chrysanthemums. The circular inset contains a poet and his poem addressed to the two of them:
In its wake
The autumn grasses wither.
Indeed, the mountain wind
Has now become a gale.
This print was designed as an advertisement poster for the tea-house.
Subject Matter:
In this print designed as an advertisement poster for the tea-house, the grand courtesan, Hinatsuru, which means “young crane,” and her kamuro (attendant) are depicted as elegant and desirable beauties. The circular inset contains a poet and his poem addressed to the two of them:
In its wake
The autumn grasses wither.
Indeed, the mountain wind
Has now become a gale.
Physical Description:
The kneeling figure in the foreground is grand courtesan Hinatsuru. Her kamuro (attendant) is arranging a vase of chrysanthemums beside her. The circular inset contains a poet and his poem addressed to the two of them:
In its wake
The autumn grasses wither.
Indeed, the mountain wind
Has now become a gale.
Usage Rights:
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