Kotondo's bijin-ga are prized for their psychologically intimate portrayals of modern Tokyo women. With only 21 designs and original woodblocks destroyed, all genuine 1930s impressions are scarce. Sotheby's estimated "Summer Geisha" at $8,000–$12,000 in 2023.
A woman arranges her nagajuban — the long silk undergarment worn beneath the outer kimono — its light blue ground patterned with delicate textile design. Kotondo renders the fabric's weight and texture through sensitive line work, the garment's looseness suggesting the private, unhurried atmosphere of a woman dressing alone. The July date (summer) implies the use of lighter silk appropriate to the season. The nagajuban subject allowed Kotondo to explore both the body partially revealed and the beauty of Japanese textile design.
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Long Undergarment (light blue ground, pattern on kimono) (Nagajuban) was created by Torii Kotondo (鳥居言人) in July 1929.
Long Undergarment (light blue ground, pattern on kimono) (Nagajuban) was published by Watanabe Shozaburo (July 1929).
Long Undergarment (light blue ground, pattern on kimono) (Nagajuban) depicts figures, bijin-ga, and interiors.
