The Courtesan Somenosuke of the Matsubaya, and Attendants Wakagi and Wakaba, from the series "A Comparison of Contemporary Beauties (Tosei bijin awase)" c. 1796 - 1797

"The Courtesan Somenosuke of the Matsubaya, and Attendants Wakagi and Wakaba" is a woodblock print by Chōkōsai Eishō, depicting a beautiful courtesan named Somenosuke. She is seated and playing the traditional Japanese instrument, the koto. The composition is balanced, focusing on the central figure, and utilizes a range of colors to highlight the details of the clothing and the instrument. Eishō's work is known for its vibrant colors, detailed designs, and emphasis on female beauty, a trend popular during the Edo period. This print, made around 1796-1797, is an excellent example of ukiyo-e, the Japanese art of woodblock printing, and its popularity within Japanese culture.