Kitagawa Utamaro "The Courtesan Hanazuma Reading a Letter" Woodblock Print Kitagawa Utamaro (Japanese, 1754?1806) ?The Courtesan Hanazuma Reading a Letter,? from the series Beauties Compared to Flowers (Bijin hana awase) Polychrome woodblock print; ink and color on paper Image: 15 1/4 x 10 1/4 in. Frame: 35 x 30 in. The courtesan Hanazuma, of the Hyogoya brothel, uses both hands to hold a letter very close to her eyes. In the upper left corner is a white peony in a circle; the background is in pale powdered mica. Kitagawa Utamaro was a Japanese artist. He is one of the most highly regarded practitioners of the ukiyo-e genre of woodblock prints, especially for his portraits of female beauties, or bijin-ga. He also produced nature studies, particularly illustrated books of insects. Utamaro's work reached Europe in the mid-nineteenth century, where it was very popular, enjoying particular acclaim in France. He influenced the European Impressionists, particularly with his use of partial views and his emphasis on light and shade. The reference to the "Japanese influence" among these artists often refers to the work of Utamaro. Free US Shipping with Insurance Included. All items are professionally packaged and shipped. All shipments include insurance and delivery confirmation or signature confirmation. Local Pick-up is available in our showroom. (Contact us for payment methods to pay on pickup.) International Shipping: Worldwide Shipping at Buyer?s Expense *The customs requirements for each country, including all import duties, taxes, and fees are the responsibility of the buyer. All international packages will have the required customs declaration and value of order. California Buyers: 9% sales tax will be added. Returns Policy: Your continuing satisfaction is very important to us. We offer a 30 day money back return policy. If you are unhappy with your purchase for any reason, please notify us so that we can begin the returns process. All items must be returned in the same condition that it was received. Please note that the buyer is responsible for return shipping and a 20% restocking fee may apply. About Us: As one of the largest Coin Jewelry Companies on the west coast, and also one of the best gold buyers, Continental has been the destination for coins, jewelry, fine art and collectible buyers and sellers for over 45 years. Whether you?re looking to buy items or interested in selling gold and silver for cash, sell coins, or a variety of other collectibles, we are here to help. All items for sale are available for viewing at our Southern California showroom. We would like to thank all of our loyal customers for their continued support. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please click "Ask a question" below, and we will respond as soon as possible. Thank you. Continental Coin and Jewelry Company Web Department: Monday - Friday, from 10:30am - 6pm PST Reference Item #A07311301P JP 4/14/14 Visit Our Store: Continental Coin and Jewelry