Shinsui is Japan's preeminent shin-hanga bijin-ga master. His "Modern Beauties" and related series remain in strong demand, with provenance from notable collections (Freddie Mercury's collection appeared at Sotheby's 2023) adding premium value.
A woman is depicted in the under-kimono (juban) that is worn next to the skin beneath the outer layers of formal dress—a garment of softer, lighter fabric than the elaborate kimono it supports, and one whose appearance in art signaled intimacy and informality. The subject allowed Shinsui to explore the female figure in a state of partial undress that was suggestive without being explicit, consistent with the [bijin-ga](/glossary/bijin-ga) tradition's careful calibration of exposure and concealment. The print belongs to his broader interest in domestic and grooming scenes.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
A Lady in Under Kimono was created by Ito Shinsui (伊東深水).
A Lady in Under Kimono was published by Watanabe Shozaburo.
A Lady in Under Kimono depicts figures, bijin-ga, and interiors.
