High-Ranking Courtesan (Oiran), from "Five Shades of Ink in the Northern Quarter (Hokkoku goshiki-zumi)", Kitagawa Utamaro

High-Ranking Courtesan (Oiran), from "Five Shades of Ink in the Northern Quarter (Hokkoku goshiki-zumi)", Kitagawa Utamaro (Japanese, ca. 1754-1806). Edo Period; 1794-95, Woodblock print; ink and color on paper, Oban 37.5 x 24.8 cm

This woodblock print showcases a high-ranking courtesan or Orian from the Yoshiwara district. This print depicts the private moment of a courtesan as she has just washed her hair, wets the tip of the brush with her lips, and as she begins to write a letter. The detail used to depict the central figure, such as within her kimono, contrasted with the stark yellow background (The Metropolitan Museum of Art), indicates that this print is only used to showcase the conventional and desired beauty of this high-ranking courtesan. The series created by Kitagawa Utamaro, is a depiction of the five “types” of courtesans, created for males within the yoshiwara distinct. This categorizes women, leveling them down to desired objects in which the men of the Edo period could buy and use as they please. This print also highlights the rigid beauty standards which were imposed onto the women of the time. This courtesan is depicted with a quiet and refined manor, bright red lips, small features, pale skin, and writing a letter and therefore practicing and demonstrating the desire of an idealized cultured woman. This letter also suggests to the viewer that this courtesan could be writing a love letter to one of her patrons. All qualities and traits of which are highly desired and sought after within the minds of the men attending the Yoshiwara district.