Wakana of the Matsubaya, from the series "Beauties of the Pleasure Quarters as the Six Floral Immortals (Seiro bijin rokkasen)" c. 1794 - 1795

"Wakana of the Matsubaya" is a woodblock print created by Chōbunsai Eishi in c. 1794-1795. Part of the series "Beauties of the Pleasure Quarters as the Six Floral Immortals (Seiro bijin rokkasen)", this print depicts Wakana, a courtesan from the Matsubaya house, as the floral immortal, "Orchid". The work is an example of the *bijin-ga* genre, which depicts beautiful women, and utilizes vibrant colors and intricate details. The artist's use of perspective and composition creates a sense of depth and realism, while the elegant posture and delicate features of the courtesan reflect the idealized beauty of the Edo period. The print is currently housed at The Art Institute of Chicago.