Maiko in Snow combines two beloved Japanese motifs — the apprentice geisha and a wintry Kyoto landscape — in a composition that bridges Asano's landscape and figure work. This print is among his more collectible subjects, typically selling for $200-$500. The juxtaposition of the maiko's colorful kimono against white snow exemplifies Asano's bold color sensibility.
Maiko in Snow presents one of Kyoto's most recognizable figures — the apprentice geisha in her elaborate kimono and high lacquered geta (wooden sandals) — caught in a moment of winter weather. The maiko navigating a snow-dusted street in her formal regalia was a subject of enduring fascination in Kyoto's artistic tradition, the juxtaposition of elaborate artifice with the natural contingency of winter weather creating a visual and conceptual contrast that Asano captured with warmth and precision. The colorful costuming of the maiko against white snow provided him with a particularly vivid chromatic composition.
Woodblock print
c. 1832/38
Color woodblock print; oban
Yuki no Miyajima
1929
Color woodblock print; oban
1932
Woodblock print
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Maiko in Snow (舞妓雪) was created by Takeji Asano (浅野竹二).
Maiko in Snow uses Bokashi, Nishiki-e, and Moku-hanga, on woodblock print.
Maiko in Snow was published by Unsodo.
Maiko in Snow depicts snow scenes and bijin-ga.
