Portrait of a Woman Holding a Fan by Katsushika Hokusai

This classic Japanese woodblock print belongs to the traditional genre of beautiful women portraits from the Edo period. Poetically entitled “Portrait of a Woman Holding a Fan”, this outstanding creation by the master Hokusai Katsushika showcases a profound aesthetic sensibility. Through this delicate representation, the painter captures the true essence of feminine beauty in vogue. The artwork perfectly illustrates the refinement and elegance of the urban middle class during this prosperous cultural era.

In the foreground, a highly elegant woman stands out against a completely plain and minimalist grey background. Her pale, graceful profile reveals extremely delicate features, finely drawn dark eyebrows, and expressive almond eyes looking to the side with curiosity. Her voluminous black hairstyle is adorned with several yellow bamboo hairpins and a bright red flower comb that adds color. She wears a magnificent white silk kimono decorated with small blue floral patterns under a thick black and gold collar. With her delicate, invisible hand, she holds a large round pleated paper fan whose warm orange hue adds a soft light and beautiful contrast to the entire artistic composition.

The artist demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship in the art of woodblock printing by rendering the fine texture of the hair. The subtle color gradations on the fan and the precision of the textile details show a complete technical mastery. This masterpiece illustrates his unique ability to immortalize his subjects.