The Life of a Geisha - Hardcover

Underwood, Eleanor

3.9

187 ratings by Goodreads

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0765117398 ISBN 13: 9780765117397

Publisher: Smithmark Pub, 1999

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Period and contemporary photographs, along with traditional Japanese poetry and haiku and woodblock prints, highlight a close-up look inside the world of the geisha, from her richly detailed costume and makeup to her ritualized behavior.

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From the Inside Flap:

The mysterious milieu of Japan's treasured geisha-with her stylized makeup, elaborate coiffure, elegant kimono, and artful, coquettish manner-has long fascinated observers around the globe. With gorgeous illustrations and a lively text, "The Life of a Geisha" explores the world of geisha, from their early predecessors in the seventh century to modern geisha today. Beautiful ukiyo-e woodblock prints by Japanese masters Hiroshige, Yoshitoshi, Kunisada and others reveal the special geisha spirit, or iki, that brought forth the popular rise of geisha. Geisha songs, haiku and senry (satirical Edo-period verse) accompany enchanting images of geisha in various stages of development-from shikomi or indentured servant, to maiko or apprentice geisha-to portray the unique realm of these female artist-entertainers who gained full-fledged geisha status only after years of shamisen-playing and other lessons. Antique photographers from the late nineteenth century as well as vintage postcards and posters offer a glimpse into the singular Japanese subculture that was little known in the years before World war II, while stunning art photography from the mid-1940's to today illustrates geisha's contemporary role as beloved standard-bearers of traditional arts. This lovely volume fully illuminates the seductive geisha world, offering a look "behind the scenes" into the life and times of this chastely beguiling female icon who has captivated Japan's most powerful men for over 200 years.

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