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A work made of hanging scroll; ink on silk.

Beauty Beneath a Willow Tree

Edo period, c. 1780

Isoda Koryusai Japanese, 1735-1790

Japan

This image focuses on a young woman as she strolls beneath a willow tree, lost in thought. She wears a black kimono over layers of red and an obi sash embroidered with phoenixes—elaborate attire that suggests she is on the way to some engagement. The abundant details in the patterns and colors of her outfit stand out against the abbreviated landscape rendered in ink.

Hanging scroll; ink on silk

Arts of Asia