Artist: Chikanobu Toyohara (1838-1912) Title: No.19 Courtesans Kochou of Kadoebi and Yoshi from Nakanomachi Series: Honoured Courtesans, Praise for Multi-Coloured Blossoms Publisher: Kobayashi Tetsujiro Date: 1884 Size: 35.6 x 23.7 cm Condition report: Backed, slightly yellowed, minor spots, minor creases, light soiling. In 'Honoured Courtesans, Praise for Multi-Coloured Blossoms' series, Chikanobu introduces images of famous courtesans from various teahouses. The 'multi-coloured blossoms' - women - are presented in numerous scenes, such as leisurely spending their time by enjoying garden walks, playing traditional Japanese musical instruments, talking, tea ceremony, or participating in seasonal activities. The beauties, usually placed in an exquisite setting, are always dressed in elegant garments with beautiful details and vibrant shades. The top of each print features a small scene with a fan-shaped inset on the right, explaining the subject. Two courtesans admire a 'kyo ningyo' - a kind of Japanese doll produced especially in Kyoto. The doll is dressed in the same manner as the beauties, wearing beautifully patterned kimono. One of the ladies enjoys her time by drinking sake and having a little snack. Depicted on the left, a high-arched moon bridge in a spacious garden leads to another part of the courtesans' building.