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Turning a Shamisen (Shamisen no nejime), from the series "Chanting to Shamisen by... c. 1804/06. Creator: Kitagawa Utamaro. Turning a Shamisen (Shamisen no nejime), from the series "Chanting to Shamisen by... c. 1804/06
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Turning a Shamisen (Shamisen no nejime), from the series "Chanting to Shamisen by... c. 1804/06. Creator: Kitagawa Utamaro. Turning a Shamisen (Shamisen no nejime), from the series "Chanting to Shamisen by... c. 1804/06
Turning a Shamisen (Shamisen no nejime), from the series "Chanting to Shamisen by Young Women of Today (Tosei musume joruri)", Japan, c. 1804/06
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Media ID 36211363
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Black Hair Cartouche Check Checked Chequered Concentrating Concentration Hair Ornament Kanzashi Kitagawa Utamaro Samisen Shamisen Tuning Utamaro Utamaro Kitagawa
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Turning a Shamisen" is a captivating woodblock print from the series "Chanting to Shamisen" by the renowned Japanese artist Kitagawa Utamaro, created around 1804 or 1806. This stunning work of art showcases a young woman intently focusing on the intricate process of tuning a shamisen, a three-stringed Japanese musical instrument, with a serious and determined expression on her face. The woman wears a traditional kimono adorned with a checkered pattern, her long black hair styled in an elegant updo held in place by kanzashi, or hair ornaments. The print's title, "Shamisen no nejime," translates to "The End of Shamisen," suggesting that this image may depict the final steps in preparing for a musical performance. Utamaro's masterful use of color and composition in this oban-size print is evident in the rich brown hues of the shamisen and the grey background, which contrast beautifully with the woman's vibrant clothing. The cartouche at the bottom left of the print includes the artist's signature and the title of the series, "Tosei musume joruri," which translates to "Young Women of Today's Joruri." This print is an excellent example of the ukiyo-e artistic style, which flourished during the Edo and Tokugawa periods in Japan. It showcases the traditional clothing, hairstyles, and musical instruments of the time, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Japan during the nineteenth century. The Art Institute of Chicago is fortunate to have this exceptional work in its collection, allowing us to appreciate the beauty and intricacy of Utamaro's artistry and the historical significance of this image. "Turning a Shamisen" is a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese art, fashion, or music.
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