Eisen (1790 - 1848 )
Born to the well-known calligrapher Shigeharu, Eisen worked as a painter, woodblock printmaker and illustrator in Edo during the 19th century. As a young man, he studied Kano painting with Hakkeisai before pursuing illustration and printmaking under Eizan. It is said that Eisen was a brothel owner and held the reputation of a debaucher and a man of questionable personal conduct. Though he completed masterful nature studies and landscapes, he is best known for his beautiful women. In addition to his artistic oeuvre, Eisen authored Zoku Ukiyo-e Ruiko, an edited account of the history of ukiyo-e.
As ukiyo-e achieved an unprecedented popularity in the 1800s, bijin (beautiful women) were the stars of this period. Eisen’s beauties present a particular type of femininity: willful, self-assertive, voluptuous and vivacious. Balancing bold compositions with intricate kimono designs, Eisen’s bijin-ga offer a quiet sensuality.
Ukiyo-e Under $500
Great Japanese ukiyo-e prints can be found at a variety of price points. This collection of affordable artwork presents a selection of ukiyo-e priced under $500.
13 Products
Eisen
Pictures of Valiant Warriors (Buyu sakigake zue), Volume 2
JPR-211118
Eisen
Evening Glow at Naka-no-cho: Yoyoyama of the House of Matsubaya
JPR-209120
Eisen
Hodogaya: Courtesan Hanamurasaki from Tamaya
JPR-85364