High Ranking Courtesan
c. 1830/43
Mihata Jōryū 三畠上龍 (Japanese, active 1830–43)
Japan
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.
Ink, color, and gold on silk