Woman Writing Calligraphy

Another example of an Ukiyo-e woodblock print, this particular work indicates the significance of calligraphy as a traditional art form in Japan. Since arriving in Japan from China centuries ago, calligraphy has remained a highly influential art form, with the ability to simultaneously evoke linguistic meaning and aesthetic appreciation. The woman portrayed in this print is the ultimate feminine ideal of 18th century Japan – delicate, elongated features, pale skin, and a knowledge of fine art. These portraits of beautiful women – a genre known as Bijin-ga – are very common in Ukiyo-e. In this particular print, the artist has chosen to emphasize this grace and poise through the woman’s careful calligraphy. With her right hand, she delicately applies ink to the page; with her left hand, she carefully holds back her kimono sleeve so as not to smudge her work.