Japanese Lacquer, Meiji Period: A Group Of Four Geisha In A Landscaped Garden, Engaged In Refined Conversation

A beautiful antique Japanese lacquer panel from the Meiji era, depicting a lively scene of four geishas in front of a traditional house; these beautiful, high-born young women are shown chatting in a landscaped garden.
The lacquer, of the highest quality and exquisitely crafted, is applied in thick layers to capture the beauty of the richly embroidered fabrics; the hands, faces, hair, and writing accessories of the young women are rendered using inlay work.
The tree trunks, furniture, and roof tiles also feature a generous layer of lacquer.
Note the absence of the small book of writings or poetry extending from the right hand of the second figure from the left, as well as a chip along the edge of the frame.
This very luxurious frame is made of lacquer and adorned with a rich design of cherry blossom branches.

Role and Art of Geishas

• Traditional Artists: Mastery of dance, song, the shamisen, and the tea ceremony.
• Elite Circles: Entertaining at banquets (ozashiki) and private gatherings.
• Training: A long training period beginning in adolescence for apprentices known as maiko.

Lifestyle and realities

• Location: Primarily found in Kyoto and in a few historic districts (hanamachi).
• Common misconception: Contrary to common misconceptions from the West, they are not prostitutes but important guardians of culture.
• Discretion: Their magnificent kimonos and white makeup are reserved for performance hours.

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