A Standing Beauty (Bijinga) of Courtesan in a Patterned Kimono - Katsukawa Shunsen - Japan - Edo Period (1600-1868)
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Selected by Giovanni Bottero
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Original Edo-period Japanese print by Katsukawa Shunsen titled A Standing Beauty (Bijinga) of Courtesan in a Patterned Kimono, a two-panel Kakemono-e dating circa 1820, in fair condition with two vertical panels measuring top 36.4 x 23 cm and bottom 33.7 x 23 cm; provenance: Private collection.
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Description from the seller
Authentic japanese print from Katsukawa Shunsen (1762 - c. 1830).
Measures: (Kakemono-e)
Top panel 36,4 × 23
Bottom panel 33,7 x 23
This print dates from around 1820.
Condition: Fair, aged condition with overall paper toning, color fading, and surface staining/creasing. The print consists of two vertical panels, with the bottom panel being somewhat larger than the top one. Several visible small repairs and fills are present and especially seen from the back of the print across the surface.
勝川春扇 (Katsukawa Shunsen), later known as Katsukawa Shunkō II, was an influential ukiyo-e artist active during the late Edo period, celebrated for his refined aesthetic and his unique contribution to the evolution of Japanese art. Born in 1762, he first trained within the Rimpa tradition under Tsutsumi Tōrin III, gaining a strong foundation in classical Japanese painting before entering the vibrant world of ukiyo-e.
Shunsen’s artistic identity was shaped further when he became a pupil of Katsukawa Shun’ei, a leading figure of the Katsukawa school. This connection placed him at the heart of one of Edo’s most recognised artistic movements. His work is marked by an elegant blend of delicate linework, harmonious compositions, and subtle emotional nuance qualities that distinguish him as a master of graceful visual storytelling.
Active primarily between 1805 and 1821, Shunsen developed a style that feels both traditional and quietly experimental. His use of gentle colour harmonies and refined detail made his prints especially appealing to audiences seeking sophistication and calm. Around 1820, he adopted the name Shunkō II, signalling a mature stage in his artistic career. During this period, he explored elements of a Western-influenced perspective, bringing a new sense of depth and spatial harmony to his designs.
Later in life, Shunsen expanded his practice beyond woodblock printing and devoted himself to painting on porcelain, another testament to his creative versatility.
For collectors and admirers of Japanese art, Katsukawa Shunsen represents a beautifully balanced fusion of elegance, technical skill, and quiet innovation. His work offers a captivating window into the refinement of Edo-period aesthetics, making him an artist whose legacy continues to inspire appreciation today.
Authentic japanese print from Katsukawa Shunsen (1762 - c. 1830).
Measures: (Kakemono-e)
Top panel 36,4 × 23
Bottom panel 33,7 x 23
This print dates from around 1820.
Condition: Fair, aged condition with overall paper toning, color fading, and surface staining/creasing. The print consists of two vertical panels, with the bottom panel being somewhat larger than the top one. Several visible small repairs and fills are present and especially seen from the back of the print across the surface.
勝川春扇 (Katsukawa Shunsen), later known as Katsukawa Shunkō II, was an influential ukiyo-e artist active during the late Edo period, celebrated for his refined aesthetic and his unique contribution to the evolution of Japanese art. Born in 1762, he first trained within the Rimpa tradition under Tsutsumi Tōrin III, gaining a strong foundation in classical Japanese painting before entering the vibrant world of ukiyo-e.
Shunsen’s artistic identity was shaped further when he became a pupil of Katsukawa Shun’ei, a leading figure of the Katsukawa school. This connection placed him at the heart of one of Edo’s most recognised artistic movements. His work is marked by an elegant blend of delicate linework, harmonious compositions, and subtle emotional nuance qualities that distinguish him as a master of graceful visual storytelling.
Active primarily between 1805 and 1821, Shunsen developed a style that feels both traditional and quietly experimental. His use of gentle colour harmonies and refined detail made his prints especially appealing to audiences seeking sophistication and calm. Around 1820, he adopted the name Shunkō II, signalling a mature stage in his artistic career. During this period, he explored elements of a Western-influenced perspective, bringing a new sense of depth and spatial harmony to his designs.
Later in life, Shunsen expanded his practice beyond woodblock printing and devoted himself to painting on porcelain, another testament to his creative versatility.
For collectors and admirers of Japanese art, Katsukawa Shunsen represents a beautifully balanced fusion of elegance, technical skill, and quiet innovation. His work offers a captivating window into the refinement of Edo-period aesthetics, making him an artist whose legacy continues to inspire appreciation today.
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
Edo Period (1600-1868)
Artist
Katsukawa Shunsen
Country of Origin
Japan
Title of artwork
A Standing Beauty (Bijinga) of Courtesan in a Patterned Kimono
Depth
0 cm
Condition
Fair condition
Provenance
Private collection
Authenticity
Original/official
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