'Coming-of-Age Ceremony' From: 'High-ranking Ladies of the Tokugawa Era' 徳川時代貴婦人図　裳着 - Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912) - Japan - Meiji-perioden (1868-1912)

This beautiful triptych, 'Coming-of-Age Ceremony' from the 'High-ranking Ladies of the Tokugawa Era' series by Chikanobu Yoshu (1838-1912), depicts a traditional Japanese ceremony for a young woman. The scene features three figures: a woman in an elaborate blue and gold kimono, a young lady kneeling with a gift box, and a man in formal attire with a sword. The detailed artistry of the woodblock print is evident in the intricate patterns of their clothing and the delicate rendering of the surrounding environment, including a bonsai tree and ornate furniture. This triptych is part of a larger series that explores the daily lives of women within the secluded palace during the Tokugawa era. Chikanobu's focus on the beauty and elegance of these women is evident in the intricate details of their opulent clothing, with the intricate patterned kimonos standing out as a prominent feature of many prints in the series. The ladies are depicted in a variety of activities from writing poetry to viewing cherry blossoms, and even taking part in martial arts training, as it was a requirement for women in a palace to be able to defend their home as a last resort. This triptych from Chikanobu Yoshu provides a fascinating glimpse into Japanese culture and tradition during the Meiji period (1868-1912) and is a testament to the artistic skill of the Japanese woodblock printmaker.The print is in good condition, with vertical folds on the sides, light scratches, and a small brown spot at the bottom of the left panel.