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Artwork

The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses)

Kitagawa Utamaro , 1794

The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses), by Kitagawa Utamaro, 1794
The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses), by Kitagawa Utamaro, 1794

The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses) is a print by the Romanticist artist Kitagawa Utamaro. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1921.343
Credit line
Gift from J. H. Wade

About this work

Overview

This print is one of a series titled Six Authors of the Green Houses, created by Kitagawa Utamaro around 1794. It is a representation of a courtesan engaged in a literary activity.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is Karauta, a courtesan from the Chojiya house, depicted reading a book. Courtesans held a high social status in Japan at the time, valued for their cultural refinement and intellectual pursuits.

Technique & Style

The print showcases Utamaro's attention to detail, particularly in the depiction of the courtesan's traditional Japanese attire and her surroundings.

History & Provenance

The print is currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses)?

The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses) was painted by Kitagawa Utamaro in 1794.

Where can I see The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses)?

The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses)?

The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses) is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses)?

Museum-quality prints of The Courtesan Karauta of Chojiya Reading a Book (from the series Six Authors of the Green Houses) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.