Geisha Blackening Teeth at 1;00 p.m.
A hand-painted replica of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece Geisha Blackening Teeth at 1;00 p.m., meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
"Geisha Blackening Teeth at 1:00 p.m." is a woodblock print by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi. Yoshitoshi, born in 1839 and deceased in 1892, was one of the last great masters of the ukiyo-e genre of woodblock printing and painting. His works are known for their dramatic intensity, innovative compositions, and vivid use of color.
This particular print is part of Yoshitoshi's series "Twenty-four Hours of the Day" (二十四時), which depicts various scenes from daily life in Japan, each associated with a specific hour of the day. The series was created during the Meiji period, a time of significant cultural and social transformation in Japan as the country was opening up to Western influences and modernizing rapidly.
"Geisha Blackening Teeth at 1:00 p.m." illustrates the traditional practice of ohaguro, where women, particularly geishas and married women, would dye their teeth black. This practice was considered a sign of beauty and maturity and was common in Japan until the late 19th century. The blackening of teeth was achieved using a solution made from iron filings, vinegar, and tannin from gallnut powder, which would create a black lacquer-like coating on the teeth.
In the print, a geisha is depicted in the act of blackening her teeth, a ritual that highlights her dedication to maintaining the aesthetic standards of her profession. The scene is set in a private, intimate space, emphasizing the personal nature of this beauty routine. The geisha's elaborate hairstyle and kimono are rendered with meticulous detail, showcasing Yoshitoshi's skill in capturing the elegance and refinement of his subjects.
Yoshitoshi's work often reflects a deep respect for traditional Japanese culture while also acknowledging the changes occurring during the Meiji era. His "Twenty-four Hours of the Day" series is a testament to his ability to document and celebrate the nuances of daily life in Japan, providing a window into the customs and practices of the time.
The print is characterized by Yoshitoshi's distinctive style, which combines bold lines, intricate patterns, and a keen attention to detail. His use of color is particularly noteworthy, with the rich hues of the geisha's attire contrasting with the more subdued tones of the background, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figure and her actions.
"Geisha Blackening Teeth at 1:00 p.m." is not only a beautiful work of art but also an important cultural artifact that offers insight into the lives and traditions of Japanese women during the Meiji period. It exemplifies Yoshitoshi's mastery of the woodblock printing technique and his ability to convey complex cultural practices through his art.
