1851 (ca.), Utagawa Hiroshige, Snow -- British Museum (London)
From the museum label: Hiroshige's fan prints often link everyday subjects with themes from high culture. These three fans connect views of Yoshiwara, Edo's only licensed brothel district, with a set classical trio of nature motifs. In the snow scene (left), two geisha (female entertainers) stroll along Yoshiwara's main street. The moon print (right) shows two geisha chatting with a courtesan. In the cherry blossoms print (far right), courtesans call to customers from the upper floor of a restaurant.
1851 (ca.), Utagawa Hiroshige, Snow -- British Museum (London)
From the museum label: Hiroshige's fan prints often link everyday subjects with themes from high culture. These three fans connect views of Yoshiwara, Edo's only licensed brothel district, with a set classical trio of nature motifs. In the snow scene (left), two geisha (female entertainers) stroll along Yoshiwara's main street. The moon print (right) shows two geisha chatting with a courtesan. In the cherry blossoms print (far right), courtesans call to customers from the upper floor of a restaurant.