A Lady with Three Servants, from the series "A Brocade of Eastern Manners (Fuzoku Azuma no nishiki)" c. 1783 - 1784

Torii Kiyonaga created this woodblock print, A Lady with Three Servants, as part of his series "A Brocade of Eastern Manners" during the Edo period. This era in Japan was marked by strict social hierarchies, and Kiyonaga's work offers a glimpse into the lives of women within this structure. Here we see a woman of the upper class attended by her servants, each figure distinguished by their clothing and demeanor. The lady's elegant kimono and serene expression contrast with the more practical attire of her servants, highlighting class distinctions. Kiyonaga challenges traditional representations of women by depicting them as strong figures in their daily lives rather than passive beauties. The print invites us to reflect on the complexities of gender and class in Edo society. It encourages us to consider the stories of these women beyond their social roles. It serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse experiences that shape individual identities.