The Courtesan Shin-Sugawara of the Tsuruya House

Probably a student of Harunobu 春信 —his early prints were signed Haruhiro 春廣—Koryūsai became one of the most prolific 18th century print designers. He was born a samurai but lost his status in 1778, becoming a rōnin 浪人 (masterless samurai). Legend has it that he relinquished his position to pursue art. His successes in painting and printmaking soon brought him official recognition: in 1782 he was one of very few ukiyo-e artists awarded the honorary rank of hokkyō 法橋 (Bridge of the Dharma) by the government.

Koryūsai was particularly known for pillar prints, and this is a fine example of his achievements in this challenging narrow format. The space is limited, but maximized by the figures and bell tower being partially out of frame. The composition is unified by careful color placement and strong diagonals, which are interrupted only by the attendant’s gaze leading us to the artist’s signature.