Woman with Shamisen and Cat c. 1820s

This woodblock print depicts a woman with a shamisen and cat, created by Yashima Gakutei. The shamisen, a three-stringed instrument, symbolizes artistry and entertainment in the floating world of Edo Japan. The cat, often associated with good fortune, sits contentedly. Observe how the cat, a creature of comfort, has journeyed through various cultural epochs. In ancient Egypt, it was revered, whilst in medieval Europe, it suffered persecution, often linked to witchcraft. Yet, in Japan, it embodies a gentler spirit, a bringer of wealth, its presence echoing in beckoning cat figurines found in businesses. The image evokes a sense of fleeting beauty, reminiscent of "mono no aware," a poignant awareness of life's impermanence. The artist skillfully uses the cat as a visual anchor, drawing us into a deeper reflection on the ephemeral nature of existence.