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Woman Tuning a Shamisen and a Cat Looking at its Own Reflection, mid- 1820s
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Woman Tuning a Shamisen and a Cat Looking at its Own Reflection, mid- 1820s
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Media ID 20376081
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Boxes Cats Feline Felines Gakutei Gakutei Yashima Sadaoka Gogaku Harunobu Harunobu Sugawara Harunobu Yashima Hokyo Horikawa Tar Horikawa Taro Ichiro Ink And Colour On Paper Kagurado Koen Lacquer Lacquered Lacquerware Lacquerwork Maruya Maruya Onikichi Nanzan Onikichi Onikichi Maruya Poem Reflected Reflection Ryosa Sadaoka Yashima Samisen Shamisen Shingakudo Shinkado Stringed Instrument Sugawara Sugawara Harunobu Surimono Taro Horikawa Tuning Yashima Yashima Gakutei Yashima Harunobu Yashima Sadaoka Yotei
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In this woodblock print from the mid-1820s, titled "Woman Tuning a Shamisen and a Cat Looking at its Own Reflection" we are transported to the enchanting world of Edo period Japan. The image showcases the delicate artistry of Gakutei, an esteemed artist of his time. The scene unfolds in a traditional Japanese room adorned with lacquered boxes and exquisite craftsmanship. A graceful woman sits attentively, her fingers delicately adjusting the strings of a shamisen, a stringed instrument known for its soulful melodies. As she tunes her instrument, her serene concentration is mirrored by an equally mesmerizing sight. A curious cat perches nearby, captivated by its own reflection in one of the polished lacquer surfaces. Its eyes fixated on this mysterious doppelgänger, it seems lost in contemplation or perhaps even bewitched by its own likeness. This playful interaction between feline curiosity and self-reflection adds depth to the composition. Gakutei's masterful use of black ink and subtle hints of color bring life to every stroke within this intricate print. The fine details capture not only the physical beauty but also evoke emotions that resonate beyond time and place. This remarkable piece is part of an album called "Surimono" showcasing Gakutei's artistic prowess alongside other renowned artists from 19th century Japan. Preserved at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, it stands as a testament to both cultural heritage and artistic excellence that continues to inspire viewers today.
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