The Oiran Hanagiku Reading a Love Letter While Standing 1759 - 1779

"The Oiran Hanagiku Reading a Love Letter While Standing" is a woodblock print by the artist Ippitsusai Bunchō, also known as 文調. This print, from the Edo period, depicts a courtesan named Hanagiku reading a love letter in her lavishly decorated home. The print is a fine example of the ukiyo-e style, characterized by its depiction of everyday life, especially in the pleasure districts of Edo. The artist's use of color and line creates a delicate and elegant image of a woman in a moment of intimate reflection. This captivating work is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, and is a valuable representation of Japanese art from the 18th century.