Young Woman at Night accompanied by a Servant Carrying a Lantern and a Shamisen Box 1789 - 1829

Kitagawa Kikumaro created this woodblock print of a “Young Woman at Night accompanied by a Servant Carrying a Lantern and a Shamisen Box.” It is important to consider the cultural context of the Edo period in Japan, where class distinctions were strictly defined and influenced the representation of women. This artwork offers a glimpse into the life of women within these social structures. The identities of the women in the image are closely tied to their position in society. The serene woman is accompanied by a servant carrying a lantern and shamisen box. These details tell a story about status and the roles these women occupy. The image suggests a narrative beyond what is depicted, inviting us to consider the nuances of Japanese society. It’s a gentle look at the quiet moments and the complexities of identity and class during a time of great social change.