Goyo completed only 14 woodblock print designs before his death in 1921, making every genuine impression extraordinarily rare. His bijin-ga are among the most refined of the entire shin-hanga movement. "Woman at the Bath" achieved $40,075 at Bonhams New York in 2020; Sotheby's estimates of $15,000–$25,000 are typical for top examples.
A woman holding a tray — a waitress or serving woman in the act of carrying a lacquered tray — rendered in January 1920 with the characteristic precision Goyo brought to professional female subjects. The tray-holding posture requires balance, attention, and a controlled formality of movement that gives the figure a dignity distinct from the relaxed ease of his bathing women. Mica on the paper surface creates a subtle luminosity that elevates the everyday act of service into something closer to a ceremony of hospitality.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Woman Holding a Tray was created by Hashiguchi Goyo (橋口五葉) in 1920 (Taishō 9), 1st month.
Woman Holding a Tray was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (1920 (Taishō 9), 1st month).
Woman Holding a Tray depicts bijin-ga.
Woman Holding a Tray measures 40.2 × 27 cm (Oban format).
