Moon of the pleasure quarters (Kuruwa no tsuki) — History & Facts
In Moon of the Pleasure Quarters (Kuruwa no tsuki), vibrant colors dominate the scene, with deep blues and soft whites creating a tranquil night atmosphere. The composition features figures in traditional attire, likely courtesans, engaged in leisurely activities. The moonlight casts a gentle glow, illuminating their surroundings and enhancing the intimate setting.
The background showcases elements of the pleasure quarters, adding depth to the narrative. This artwork is a woodblock print, a technique that allows for intricate details and vibrant colors. The use of layering in the printing process creates a rich texture that is characteristic of Ukiyo-e. Viewers can appreciate the fine lines and delicate patterns that define the clothing and surroundings of the figures.
The print is approximately 25 x 35 cm, making it a modest yet impactful piece. Tsukioka Yoshitoshi was a prominent figure in the Ukiyo-e movement, known for his innovative approach to traditional themes. This particular work reflects the artist's interest in the pleasure quarters of Edo, capturing the beauty and complexity of this world. An interesting fact about this piece is that it was created during a time when Yoshitoshi was exploring darker themes in his art, yet here he presents a serene and enchanting scene.
This duality showcases his versatility as an artist.
More Artworks by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Frost fills the air and the autumn air is still/lines of returning geese cross the moon in the third hour-Kenshin, from the series Twelve Aspects of the Moon
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Fukami Jikyu in maanlicht
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Looking Shy; The Manners of a Young Girl of the Meiji Era
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The Lonely House on Adachi Moor in Northern Japan
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Inaba Mountain moon (Inabayama no tsuki)
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Omori Hikoshichi
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

One Hundred Aspects of the Moon
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The Saga Incident
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Bon Festival Moon (Bon no tsuki)
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Preparing to Take a Stroll; The Wife of a Nobleman of the Meiji Period
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
More Genre Scene Art

Banquet of the Officers of the St George Civic Guard
Frans Hals

Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son
Rembrandt van Rijn

Bal du moulin de la Galette
Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Quadrille at the Moulin Rouge
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

A Burial at Ornans
Gustave Courbet

When Will You Marry?
Paul Gauguin
