Rolschildering

Tatsu, 1700 - 1800

Courtesan with letter watching geese. Shihôsai ? Japan c. 1770 - 1780. Ink and colours on silk, traces of gold. A courtesan, recognizable by her dress, holds a letter in her hand as she watches geese in flight. Perhaps she is thinking of the man she loves who is far away. Letters played a vital part in Japanese courtship. Beautiful calligraphy could help one win the hand of a lover. Westendorp bequest.

  • Artwork typehanging scroll
  • Object numberAK-MAK-1381
  • Dimensionsheight 87 cm x width 28 cm, height 10 cm x width 41 cm x depth 10.5 cm