High Ranking Courtesan
Mihata Jôryû
c. 1830/43
Medium
Ink, color, and gold on silk
Dimensions
106.6 × 45.6 cm (42 × 18 in.); Overall: 176.5 × 54.6 cm (69 1/2 × 21 1/2 in.)
Classification
hanging scroll
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
17841
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
This beautiful woman’s sumptuous clothing and elaborate hairstyle identify her as a high-ranking courtesan. She wears full regalia: multiple layers of kimono, a coat, and many hairpins. Her uchikake (outer coat) has a design of a flowering plum tree that extends across the full height of the garment.