Utabikuni (Buddhist priestess promoting virtue through song)

Utabikuni (Buddhist priestess promoting virtue through song) images

Uta-bikuni were nuns who went around chanting prayers and admonishing Buddhism. During the early Edo period there were many wandering harlots disguised as such nuns, with make-up and beautiful voices, stopping at one door after another. Note the enticing expressions of this woman in her yellow clothing and red under-garment.

Data

Period Edo period, 17th century
Materials and Techniques Hanging scroll, colour on paper
Size 62.1×27.1