New Yoshiwara (Shin Yoshiwara), from the series Famous Places in the Eastern Capital, result 1 of 1

Japan, Edo Period (1615-1868)

New Yoshiwara (Shin Yoshiwara), from the series Famous Places in the Eastern Capital

Print

early 1830s

color woodblock print

Sheet: 24.5 x 36.9 cm (9 5/8 x 14 1/2 in.)

In this dramatic night scene, Kuniyoshi emphasized the moon and its huge glowing halo. He employed Western-style shadows beneath the figures and the palanquin. The man at the center is singing with his mouth wide open. Perhaps he is headed home after drinking in New Yoshiwara, the pleasure quarter, visible only as a series of low rooflines in the background beyond the rice paddies. The chatting pair and wealthy passenger inside the palanquin may be on their way to the pleasure quarter.

Signature: Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga

Publisher: Kagaya Kichibei (Kagaya, Ryogoku, emblem)

Censorship Seal: kiwame

Cleveland, Ohio, USA

Collection: Japanese Art

Department: Japanese Art

Provenance: (Yamanaka & Co.)

Bequest of Edward L. Whittemore

Image and original data from The Cleveland Museum of Art