Kisen Collection

Kisen Hoshi, from the series "Fashionable Children as the Six Immortal Poets (Furyu... c. 1814/17)
Kisen Hoshi, from the series "Fashionable Children as the Six Immortal Poets (Furyu kodakara rokkasen)", Japan, c. 1814/17

Matching Shells (Kai-awase), Kisen Hoshi, ”
Matching Shells (Kai-awase), " Kisen Hoshi, " from the series Modern Parodies of the Six Poetic Immortals (Yatsushi rokkasen: Kisen Hoshi), ca. 1796-98

The traditional costume of the Kamakura era - Japan
Beautiful Japanese promotional postcard for the Toyo Kisen Kaisha Shipping Company which ran services between San Francisco, China and Japan. Date: circa 16th century

Ancient Japanese Horse racing at Kamo Shrine, Tokyo, Japan. Date: circa 18th century

Attack of the 47 Ronin and Ryogoku Bridge, Tokyo, Japan
Beautiful Japanese promotional postcard for the Toyo Kisen Kaisha Shipping Company which ran services between San Francisco, China and Japan

From the series Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets: Kisen Hoshi, c1830. Artist: Hokusai
From the series Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets: Kisen Hoshi, c1830. Hokusai, Katsushika (1760-1849). Found in the collection of the State Hermitage, St. Petersburg

Kisen, The country girl as Kisen. Kubo, Shunman, 1757-1820, artist, [between 1801 and 1810], 1 print : woodcut, color; 19.9 x 8.2 cm

Tamao-Dayu - Famous Geisha, Japan & Komagata, Tokyo. Beautiful Japanese promotional postcard for the Toyo Kisen Kaisha Shipping Company which ran services between San Francisco, China and Japan

Minatogawa Shrine at Kobe, Japan
Beautiful Japanese promotional postcard for the Toyo Kisen Kaisha Shipping Company which ran services between San Francisco, China and Japan

Oishi Yoshio, Chief of the Forty Seven Ronin
Beautiful Japanese promotional postcard for the Toyo Kisen Kaisha Shipping Company which ran services between San Francisco, China and Japan

Castle Nijo at Kyoto and The Nagoya Castle - Japan
Beautiful Japanese promotional postcard for the Toyo Kisen Kaisha Shipping Company which ran services between San Francisco, China and Japan

The country girl as Kisen. Print shows Kisen (possibly the poet Kisen Hoshi), full-length portrait, facing left, with right arm raised and carrying a basket under his left arm

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"Kisen: A Glimpse into Ancient Japanese Culture and Art" Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kisen, a captivating figure from ancient Japan. Known for her beauty and grace, Kisen is depicted in various artworks that showcase the rich cultural heritage of this era. One such artwork is "Matching Shells (Kai-awase), " a mesmerizing piece from the series Hundred Poems by One Hundred Poets. Created by the renowned artist Hokusai around 1830, it beautifully captures Kisen Hoshi's allure and elegance. Dressed in traditional Kamakura-era attire, Kisen embodies the essence of a country girl. In another masterpiece by Kubo Shunman, we see her portrayed as both an innocent maiden and a geisha. These paintings transport us to a time when simplicity met sophistication. As we delve deeper into Japanese history, we discover intriguing customs like horse racing at Kamo Shrine in Tokyo. This age-old tradition brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate their shared love for horses and competition. The influence of geishas on Japanese culture cannot be overlooked either. Tamao-Dayu, one of Japan's most famous geishas, left an indelible mark with her talent and charm. Komagata district in Tokyo became synonymous with these skilled entertainers who captivated audiences with their performances. Japan's spiritual side also shines through its numerous shrines scattered across the land. The Minatogawa Shrine at Kobe exudes tranquility while Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine in Kamakura stands as a testament to devotion and faith. However, not all aspects of ancient Japan were serene; tales like that of Oishi Yoshio leading the Forty Seven Ronin remind us that honor played an integral role too. Their bravery during the attack on Ryogoku Bridge exemplifies loyalty beyond measure.