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 young woman gazes at her reflection while adjusting her hair ornaments. This landmark print, Shinsui''s first woodblock design and one of the founding works of the [shin-hanga](/glossary/shin-hanga) movement, established the template for modern [bijin-ga](/glossary/bijin-ga) with its combination of naturalistic depiction and traditional elegance. The print''s immediate success at age eighteen launched Shinsui''s legendary career.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Before the Mirror (鏡の前) was created by Ito Shinsui (伊東深水) in 1911.
Before the Mirror was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (1911).
Before the Mirror depicts figures, bijin-ga, and interiors.
Before the Mirror measures 44.2 × 29.3 cm (Oban format).
