Titelprent voor de serie 36 elegante mooie vrouwen 1898

Ogata Gekko made this print, the frontispiece for a series depicting elegant women, using woodblock printing in Japan. Let's consider what the image tells us. It offers a glimpse into the cultural values and aesthetic preferences of late 19th century Japan. Woodblock prints, known as Ukiyo-e, were not just art, but a reflection of society. The choice of subject matter, elegant women, speaks volumes about the roles and expectations of women in Japanese society during this period. The delicate lines, the muted colors, and the overall composition all contribute to a sense of refinement and grace, qualities that were highly valued in women. As historians, we can delve deeper by examining contemporary texts, social commentaries, and even fashion trends to understand the context in which this print was created. By looking at Gekko’s other works, or those of his contemporaries, we can build a picture of the artistic conventions and innovations of the time.