Kitagawa SHIKIMARO ( active c 1810 )

 Click here to view image full size.

An original painting, full colour on silk, image size 37.75 in x 15 in; 96 cms x 38 cms.
This pupil of Kitagawa Tsukimaro is known for his prints of full length beauties. Paintings by him are extremely rare and this is possibly the finest example. Shows a Kagi-zu, a geisha who entertained by playing the shamisen. Her attendant is seen behind her holding the three-stringed instrument. The shamisen came originally from China via Okinawa and underwent certain changes. It was adopted by the geisha culture in 1750 and took a number of years to master. New mount and box with a futo-maki ( a thick wooden roll to preserve the painting from damage ). In fine condition. An exceptional painting – especially the rendering of the acolyte’s face. Signed Toto ( Eastern Capital ) Shikimaro ga with red kakihan.

Status: Sold