Ukiyo-e “A Young Woman Reading a Letter” by Keisai Eisen, 1843–1847

Authentic Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print by Keisai Eisen (1790–1848), one of the most celebrated masters of late Edo-period bijin-ga (pictures of beautiful women). The work belongs to the series “Kokin-shu Waka-zukushi” and illustrates a poem associated with Sosei Hōshi, the 21st poet of the classical anthology of the “One Hundred Poets.” The publisher is Aritaya Seimon, the censor is Yoshimura. The composition shows an elegantly dressed young woman absorbed in reading a letter, rendered in Eisen’s characteristic refined linework and subtle color harmonies. Her layered kimono features intricate geometric and scrolling motifs in blue-green tones, contrasted with delicate pink underlayers. The graceful pose, elongated figure, and expressive facial features exemplify Eisen’s mature style. The vertical cartouche and calligraphy correspond to the literary series context. Color woodblock print on handmade Japanese paper (washi), in oban tate-e format. A museum-quality Edo-period bijin-ga by one of the leading ukiyo-e artists of the 19th century, highly desirable for collectors of Japanese prints and classical literary-themed series. The paper shows natural age toning, light foxing, and minor creasing consistent with mid-19th century impressions. Colors remain well preserved with clear keyblock outlines. Framed under glass.

Frame size 49.5 × 35 cm.

Material: Color woodblock print on handmade paper.

From an old private Austrian collection.