Female Dancer
1624–44
Artist unknown Japanese, active 17th century
Japan
This painting was likely once mounted on a folding screen alongside other images of dancers with fans. The exuberance of her movements evokes the lively urban culture that had sprung up in Japan’s largest cities during the 17th century, with entertainments such as dancing, theater, and brothels catering to a range of customers.
Hanging scroll; ink, color, and gold on paper