The Willow Shell (Yanagi-kai), from an Untitled Set of Beauty Prints on the Theme of Shells
Chōbunsai Eishi created this series on the theme of shells, but it seems he made up some varieties, such as this one: there is no such thing as a “willow shell.” The artist appears to be creating a visual pun: The poem refers to akoyagai (pearl oyster) shells, named after Akoya Bay in Aichi prefecture, where pearl oysters were once harvested. The branch of budding willow held by the standing courtesan resembles strands of pearls.
Artwork Details
- 鳥文斎栄之画 「柳貝」
- Title: The Willow Shell (Yanagi-kai), from an Untitled Set of Beauty Prints on the Theme of Shells
- Artist: Chōbunsai Eishi (Japanese, 1756–1829)
- Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
- Date: ca. 1791
- Culture: Japan
- Medium: Woodblock print; ink and color on paper
- Dimensions: H. 9 5/8 in. (24.4 cm); W. 7 1/16 in. (17.9 cm)
- Classification: Prints
- Credit Line: Gift of Estate of Samuel Isham, 1914
- Object Number: JP944
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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