Seated Prostitute and her Attendant c. 18th century

Miyagawa Chōshun created this painting, "Seated Prostitute and her Attendant," in Japan. It's rendered with ink and color on paper. At first glance, one notices a tranquil scene, composed with a stark contrast between the figures' vibrant attire and the muted background. This formal arrangement draws us into the depicted intimacy. The composition is structured around a dichotomy of stasis and motion. The seated prostitute, adorned in floral patterns, provides a grounding focal point, while her attendant is in a subservient posture creating a diagonal movement. The geometric forms of the women's robes juxtapose against the organic forms of the natural scenery visible through the screen. Here, we can also consider the semiotics of color and pattern. The bright reds and whites on the prostitute, and her attendant's pale blues, function as signs that reinforce established social hierarchies. Look closely at how Chōshun uses form and color, this painting challenges any singular reading, inviting an ongoing dialogue with its viewers.