The artwork, titled “Looking eager to meet someone – The appearance of a courtesan of the Kaei period,” was created by the artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi in 1888. It is part of the Ukiyo-e art movement and falls under the portrait genre. This particular piece is included in the series “Thirty-two Aspects of Daily Life.”
The artwork vividly depicts a courtesan from the Kaei period, characterized by her traditional attire and elaborate hairstyle. She is adorned in an elegant kimono with intricate patterns and rich colors, which reflect the cultural aesthetics of the time. The background is subtly decorated with falling cherry blossom petals, enhancing the sense of anticipation and eagerness conveyed in her expression and posture. The mastery of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi in capturing the essence of daily life and the nuanced emotions of his subjects is clearly evident in this compelling piece.