Two Women With a Koto c. 1800 - 1805

Katsushika Hokusai created this woodblock print titled "Two Women With a Koto." Imagine Japan during the Edo period, a time of relative peace and flourishing arts. Hokusai's work provides a window into the lives of women of this era. This print depicts a scene of domesticity and leisure, showing two women engaged with a koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. We see how social status dictated many aspects of life during this period, including access to education and artistic expression. The print invites reflection on gender roles and expectations of the time. These women are not portrayed in the hyper-sexualized manner common in Western art. Instead, they are presented as figures of grace and refinement, finding expression through music. Katsushika often explored themes of everyday life. He captured intimate moments that allow us to consider the intersection of art, culture, and personal expression. This artwork, in its quiet way, opens up avenues to reflect on our own lives. It presents us with the emotional dimensions of women in the arts during a fascinating period of Japanese history.