Japanese Woodblock Print after Katsukawa Shunshō, 'Writing a Letter'

Story

Edo-period Japan was obsessed with the 'floating world' of fashion, beauty, and theater. This scene captures a quiet, private moment of literacy and connection, where a woman carefully composes a letter under her companion's watchful eye.

Maker / Origin

Katsukawa Shunshō (1726–1792) was a giant of the ukiyo-e genre, famous for his revolutionary, realistic portraits of Kabuki actors and his graceful depictions of beautiful women. He was also the master who trained the legendary Katsushika Hokusai, the artist behind 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa.'

Condition & Value

The print appears to be in good condition with some minor toning and light foxing spots visible in the upper right background. It is housed in a vintage mid-century frame with pencil notations on the mat board; the print itself appears to be loose-mounted.