Courtesan Riding a Shishi - Totoya Hokkei

A refined woodblock print by Totoya Hokkei, depicting a courtesan atop a mythical shishi, showcasing the delicate artistry of the Edo period surimono tradition.

This woodblock print by Totoya Hokkei depicts a courtesan mounted upon a shishi, or mythical lion-dog. Hokkei, a student of Katsushika Hokusai, was a master of the surimono format. These prints were privately commissioned, often for poetry circles, and were produced with high-quality paper and sophisticated printing techniques. The composition balances the figure of the woman with the stylised, patterned form of the creature.

The courtesan is dressed in elaborate robes, her hair styled with traditional ornaments. Her posture is calm, contrasting with the dynamic, almost playful appearance of the shishi. The creature is rendered with decorative blue and white circular patterns, while its mane and tail are depicted with fine, delicate lines. The inclusion of calligraphy in the upper left corner suggests this work was created for a specific literary occasion, as is common with surimono prints of the Edo period.

Hokkei demonstrates his technical skill through the precise registration of colours and the subtle application of textures. The print avoids excessive shading, relying instead on clear outlines and flat areas of colour to define the subjects. The shishi, a guardian figure in Buddhist iconography, is here transformed into a whimsical mount, reflecting the playful and often satirical nature of late Edo period art. The work remains a fine example of the collaborative nature of Japanese printmaking, where the artist, poet, and carver worked in close proximity to produce small-scale, luxury editions for a discerning audience.