Katsukawa Shunchō Active 1780-95

Sixth Month from the series "Koshoku zue juniko" (Erotic prints for the twelve months).   A courtesan with a client embracing under a kimono stand, beside tea ceremony equipment, circa 1788

(Woman) It would be awful if anyone came upon us, so get it over quick!

(Man) it's so hot today, so let's do it like this and let the breeze in.

Reference: Shunga Sex and Pleasure in Japanese Art, Hotei Publishing pp. 190-193

Reference:  Gian Carlo Calza, Poem of the pillow and other Stories, Phaidon, pp. 234-35

Pupil of Miyagawa Shunsui, said to have also studied with Ko Sukoku. Master for Katsukawa Shun'ei. Together with Ippitsusai Buncho, Shunsho made a vital contribution to the development of realistic portrayal of Kabuki actors. After Buncho ceased to design prints in the early 1770s, Shunsho was left pre-eminent in the field, heading the Katsukawa School and providing the lead in all types of actor portrayal. His style is basically realistic, employing a flowing line and bright, precise colouring: he manages to draw out the individual strengths of actors and depict them in a grand manner, without exaggeration. In the 1780s Shunsho turned his talents to paintings of beautiful women and produced many glorious examples. As was written at the time, 'A painting by Shunsho is worth one thousand pieces of gold'.

Presented in a hand-finished brass riveted walnut stained wood frame with incised furrowed lines indicative of classic Japanese furniture.  Surrounded by a continuously wrapped pongee silk matting and protected with anti-reflection, uv-filtering museum glass.