This graceful scene of traditional Japanese dance instruction showcases Asano's ability to render the human figure alongside his more familiar architectural subjects. Figure compositions are uncommon in his body of work, which increases their appeal among collectors. Expect prices in the $250-$600 range, with condition and impression quality driving the final value.
A lesson in Japanese dance — nihon buyo — is rendered with the attentive warmth that Asano brought to scenes of traditional artistic training and transmission. The image likely shows a teacher and student, the teacher's practiced movement contrasted with the student's careful, self-conscious imitation — a dynamic that captured both the beauty of the dance form and the human relationship through which it was passed from generation to generation. In Kyoto, the world's center of geiko and maiko culture, scenes of dance instruction were a living part of the city's daily visual landscape.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Lesson in Japanese Dancing was created by Takeji Asano (浅野竹二).
Lesson in Japanese Dancing uses Bokashi, Nishiki-e, and Moku-hanga, on woodblock print.
Lesson in Japanese Dancing was published by Unsodo.
Lesson in Japanese Dancing depicts music.
