Preparing to Play the Koto 1897

"Preparing to Play the Koto" (1897) by Yōshū (Hashimoto) Chikanobu is a woodblock print that depicts three women preparing to play a koto. One woman is seated, adjusting the koto, another woman is tuning the instrument, and a third woman is looking at them with interest. The print exemplifies the ukiyo-e style of art, known for its vibrant colors and intricate details. It captures a moment of anticipation and quiet elegance as the women prepare for a musical performance. This artwork is a testament to the artist's talent for depicting everyday scenes in a visually captivating way.