Yoshiwara Collection
Yoshiwara, a district steeped in history and allure, holds a captivating tale of pleasure and tradition
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Yoshiwara, a district steeped in history and allure, holds a captivating tale of pleasure and tradition. Nestled in Shizuoka prefecture, this enchanting place has witnessed the passage of time with grace. As the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train whizzes by Mount Fuji, Yoshiwara stands as a testament to its rich past. Once known for its brothels in Tokyo, it was here that courtesans like Takikawa Hanaogi Ogiya House Mirror mesmerized patrons with their beauty and charm. Intriguing woodblock prints from artists like Masanobu Okumura transport us back to an era when three samurai would gather around a courtesan playing the shamisen while a kamuro gracefully served food on a tray. These scenes captured the essence of life within Yoshiwara's walls. Hishikawa Moronobu's street scenes vividly depict daily life in this vibrant district during the late 17th century. From bustling streets to hidden alleyways, every corner held secrets waiting to be discovered. Ishikawa Toyonobu's portrayal of a young lady with her parasol adds an air of elegance to Yoshiwara's atmosphere, and is through art that we can catch glimpses into the lives led by those who resided here. Kitao Masanobu's album "Comparing New Beauties" introduces us to captivating courtesans such as Utagawa and Nanasato from Yotsumeya or Hitomoto from Daimonjiya. Their allure transcends time as they continue to captivate our imagination even today. And let us not forget Kitagawa Utamaro's depiction of Hidematsu, Yasokichi, and Izukiyo from Otsuya - their beauty immortalized forever in his masterful artwork.