Yokihi (Yang Guifei) with Attendant - Nishimura Shigenaga

A refined woodblock print by Nishimura Shigenaga depicting the legendary figure Yokihi with an attendant, rendered in the classic urushi-e style.

This woodblock print by Nishimura Shigenaga depicts the legendary Chinese figure Yang Guifei, known in Japan as Yokihi. As a prominent artist of the early Ukiyo-e period, Shigenaga was instrumental in the development of the medium, particularly through his mastery of the urushi-e technique. This style utilised black lacquer or heavy ink to create high-contrast images, often embellished with metallic pigments or hand-applied colour.

The composition features Yokihi standing beneath a flowering branch, accompanied by a small attendant who holds a fan. The figures are rendered with elegant, flowing lines that define their elaborate robes and traditional hairstyles. The dark, ink-heavy background provides a stark contrast to the lighter lines of the figures, creating a sense of depth and focus on the subjects. The inclusion of calligraphy in the upper portion of the print integrates text with the visual narrative, a common practice in Edo-period prints that adds layers of meaning to the work.

Shigenaga is recognised for his technical contributions to printmaking, including the refinement of perspective and the use of larger formats. His work often drew upon historical and literary themes, bridging the gap between classical subjects and the popular culture of the time. This print captures the grace associated with Yokihi, a figure whose story has been retold in literature and art for centuries. The balance between the decorative elements of the clothing and the simplicity of the background demonstrates the aesthetic priorities of the period. This museum-grade reproduction preserves the stark contrast and fine line work of the original, offering a clear view into the artistic traditions of eighteenth-century Japan.