Writing on a Fan 1765

Ishikawa Toyonobu created this print, "Writing on a Fan," sometime in the mid-18th century using woodblock printing techniques. It's a glimpse into the Floating World of Edo-period Japan, a world of transient pleasures centered in the urban centers. Here, we see a courtesan, identifiable by her elaborate hairstyle and clothing, carefully writing on a fan. The act of writing, associated with literacy and education, elevates her status, while the fan itself was both a practical object and a symbol of refinement. This image wasn't just about depicting beauty; it was about constructing a certain image of women within the confines of a strict social hierarchy. To truly understand this print, we need to look at the history of printmaking in Japan, the role of the Floating World, and the complex codes of dress and behavior that governed social interactions. What sources would we consult? Broadsides, popular literature, and government edicts are essential to any exploration. Through historical context we can comprehend the ways in which art both reflects and shapes the society in which it exists.