Near perfect condition. There are no stains, holes, tears, or creases. The colors remain vivid, and the printed lines are exceptionally sharp. Measuring approximately 52 × 34.5 cm, this large-format reproduction makes an impressive display piece.
This high-quality Japanese woodblock reproduction was produced during the 1950s as part of a postwar educational series reproducing celebrated ukiyo-e masterpieces. The original design was created by Utagawa Kunisada around 1850–1855 and was likely edited for reproduction by Hara Shōjirō as part of the same series as other Kunisada reproductions from the period.
The composition depicts an elegant high-ranking courtesan or noblewoman accompanied by a young kamuro (apprentice attendant). The woman carries a lacquered box filled with brilliant red peony blossoms while an ornate folding screen decorated with large peonies fills the background. Rather than illustrating a Kabuki performance, the print celebrates feminine beauty, refinement, and the changing seasons.
Peonies have long symbolized wealth, nobility, prosperity, and feminine elegance in Japanese art, making them a fitting subject for Kunisada's graceful bijin-ga. The richly patterned kimono, bold outlines, and harmonious composition exemplify the mature style that established Kunisada as the leading designer of beautiful women during the final decades of the Edo period.
Although the title cartouche and signature were trimmed from this impression, the composition is clearly based on one of Kunisada's late Edo bijin-ga. Like the other reproductions in this educational series, it was produced to preserve and introduce classic Japanese woodblock masterpieces to a new generation while faithfully reproducing the appearance and craftsmanship of the original designs.
