Two Oiran with Two Female Attendants in the Yoshiwara

The print above displays two Courtesans of high rank alongside each of their attendants. It is indicated in the title of the work that these courtesans are known as “Oiran” which was the name attributed to courtesans of high rank during the Edo Period. The two Oiran displayed above are wearing kimonos that appear to be indicative of high social standing due to the colors used, the numerous layers and patterns. Both women have green and red throughout their kimono. The color green is a strong symbol of the virtuous gentlemen, a strong theme during the Edo Period. Also, the color red indicates that the kimono was expensive, since the color red was restricted to the higher class due to its price. Therefore, one can infer that the oiran had clients of high ranks that gifted them these kimonos. Also, each layer is patterned, the level of detail and variety, indicates that the Courtesan’s kimono is expensive, thus indicating rank. The patterns of flowers both in the obi and in the layers of the kimono further elevate the garment as having patterns with cultural significance also indicated rank. Flowers in Japanese culture come to mean a variety of things. The Oiran at the center of the work, the obi appears to have patterns of what looks like carnations which are symbolic of love in Japanese culture. The two attendants beside both Oiran are likely Kamuro who just entered Yoshiwara and are being trained to become Courtesans.

Esme Ortiz Image Courtesy of The MET