Two Courtesans, One Playing a Koto (Harp) and The Other Reading a Letter 1757 - 1820

This print, made by Kubo Shunman sometime before his death in 1820, is made with woodblocks and ink on paper. These are common materials, yet the technique elevates them. The delicate lines and subtle colors were achieved by carving the image into separate woodblocks, one for each color. Skilled artisans carefully aligned these blocks to create the final composition. The paper itself, likely a type of washi, has a soft, absorbent quality, perfect for capturing the nuances of the ink. The choice of materials also speaks to a wider context of leisure and refinement, in this case, the courtesans and the objects they are surrounded by. The print, produced in multiple, made this scene accessible to a wider audience, a burgeoning middle class eager to participate in the cultural life of the city. Understanding the intricate processes involved and the social context in which it was produced allows us to appreciate the full depth and complexity of this work.