Skip to main content
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 10

Antique Japanese Costume Print: Four Elegant Women in Edo-Period Kimono, 1882

$267.99
£202.12
€230
CA$370.53
A$415.05
CHF 218
MX$5,046.88
NOK 2,760.59
SEK 2,620.54
DKK 1,750.91

About the Item

Antique Japanese Costume Print: Four Elegant Women in Edo-Period Kimono This refined 19th-century Japanese print features four beautifully dressed women in elegant kimono, each captured in a different moment of daily life or quiet grace. Published by Sampson Low & Co. and lithographed in Paris by Imp. Lemercier & Cie, the print was produced under the direction of G. A. Audsley, a key figure in introducing Japanese art to Western audiences during the Meiji period. Each panel highlights a unique aspect of Edo-period costume and poise. From the gentle fold of sleeves to the elaborate hair adornments, every detail is rendered with the subtlety and precision that define Japanese woodblock print design. The muted palette of earthy browns, greens, and reds complements the delicate patterns of the kimono, evoking the refined tastes of the samurai and merchant classes of 18th- and 19th-century Japan. The third figure—posed with a staff or pole—suggests a narrative moment, perhaps referencing scenes from kabuki theatre or folk tales. The other women appear in scenes of quiet elegance, their graceful forms embodying ideals of feminine beauty and cultural sophistication. The restrained backgrounds and the decorative border between the panels further emphasize the central figures, drawing the viewer’s eye to the luxurious textile patterns and the serene dignity of each woman’s pose. For collectors of antique prints or enthusiasts of Japanese cultural history, this piece is an exquisite example of how art can capture the beauty of daily life in historical Japan and preserve it for generations to come. The significance of the kimono patterns and Edo-period fashion: The kimono worn by each figure in this print is more than just a garment—it’s a symbol of cultural identity, social status, and aesthetic philosophy. During the Edo period (1603–1868), clothing was a carefully curated expression of one’s place in the social hierarchy and personal taste. The luxurious textile patterns depicted here demonstrate the high level of artistry and craftsmanship in kimono design, often incorporating motifs that held special meanings. For example, floral designs such as cherry blossoms or chrysanthemums are not only beautiful but also evoke seasonal change and the ephemeral beauty of nature, a central theme in Japanese art. Patterns featuring cranes, pine branches, or waves are auspicious symbols, representing longevity, resilience, and harmony. Geometric designs or stylized natural forms, seen in the flowing lines of the kimono in these panels, further suggest balance and refinement. The hairstyles and accessories of the women also tell a story. Hair ornaments like combs and hairpins (kanzashi) were prized for their beauty and often matched the kimono in style or color. Their positioning and style could indicate the woman’s age, marital status, or even regional identity. The third panel’s figure, holding a staff, might hint at a dramatic scene—perhaps a reference to a theatrical performance or a historical tale. Such allusions were common in Edo-period prints, blending elements of storytelling, fashion, and social commentary in a single composition. Overall, this print is not only a window into the fashion of its time but also a testament to the sophisticated cultural language of Edo-period Japan. By including these elements in your online catalog, you invite buyers to appreciate not just the beauty of the artwork but also the rich historical tapestry it represents. Condition Report: The print is in good condition, with only minor foxing and slight toning at the margins, especially lower right border. The colors remain fresh, and the details are finely preserved. Framing Tips: A simple black or dark wooden frame with a white or ivory mat will highlight the delicate patterns and subtle color palette. This classic approach will add a touch of timeless sophistication and focus attention on the exquisite details of the print.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 10.83 in (27.5 cm)Width: 15.75 in (40 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1882
  • Condition:
    The print is in good condition, with only minor foxing and slight toning at the margins, especially lower right border. The colors remain fresh, and the details are finely preserved.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-14034-1-191stDibs: LU3054345212002

More From This Seller

View All
Antique Japanese Actor Portraits: Four Kabuki Figures in Edo-Period Style, 1882
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Antique Japanese Actor Portraits: Four Kabuki Figures in Edo-Period Style Description: This 19th-century Japanese print features four dignified male figures, each dressed in ...
Category

Antique 1880s Prints

Materials

Paper

Japanese Geisha Portrait Print: Vibrant Kimono and Serene Poise, c.1882
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Japanese Geisha Portrait Print: Vibrant Kimono and Serene Poise Description: This captivating Japanese print is a masterful example of traditional artistry, depicting a seren...
Category

Antique 1880s Prints

Materials

Paper

A Stunning Lithograph Showcasing a Japanese Lady Dressed in Kimono, 1884
Located in Langweer, NL
Title: Japanese Lady in Traditional Kimono – Plate VI, Section VIII Description: A stunning lithograph showcasing a Japanese lady dressed in an elaborately...
Category

Antique 1880s Prints

Materials

Paper

Pl. 64 Antique Print of Japanese Costumes by Racinet, 'circa 1880'
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print titled 'Japan - Japon - Japan'. Chromolithograph of Japanese Costumes. This print originates from 'Le Costume Historique' by M.A. Racinet. ...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Prints

Materials

Paper

Antique Lithograph: Kyoto Geisha with Traditional Instruments, Late 19th Century
Located in Langweer, NL
This is an antique lithograph portraying a Japanese woman, likely a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha), holding traditional Japanese musical instruments, including a drum (possibly ...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Prints

Materials

Paper

Antique Print of Japanese Costumes, 'circa 1880'
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print titled 'Japan - Japon - Japan'. Chromolithograph of Japanese Costumes. This print originates from 'Le Costume Historique' by M.A. Racinet. ...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Prints

Materials

Paper

You May Also Like

Original Japanese Triptych Color Woodblock Print by Toyohara Chikanobu
Located in Norton, MA
Original Japanese Triptych Color Woodblock Print by Toyohara Chikanobu - Title: New Year's Dishes: Etiquette of a Lady - Publisher: Takekawa Unosuk...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Japanese Prints

Materials

Paper

The Four Seasons: Spring Japanese Woodblock Triptych ink on Paper Tales of Genji
Located in Soquel, CA
The Four Seasons: Spring - Japanese Woodblock Triptych in Ink on Paper Colorful kabuki scene by Utagawa Kuniteru (Japanese, active 1818-18...
Category

Early 19th Century Edo Figurative Prints

Materials

Paper, Ink, Woodcut

Antique Woodblock Print, Chikanobu Five Festivals, 1893
Located in Amsterdam, Noord Holland
Five festivals While Japan has many national and regional celebrations, five festivals / gosseku were given particular importance. Chikanobu presents them from right to left: the Ne...
Category

Antique 19th Century Japanese Prints

Materials

Paper

Four Antique Japanese Woodblock Prints & Antique Signed Watercolor
Located in Big Flats, NY
Four Antique Japanese Woodblock Prints & Antique Signed Watercolor C1920 Measures - 15" x 10" largest
Category

Early 20th Century Asian Prints

Materials

Paper

Japanese Woodblock Print " Three Geishas" Kikukawa Eizan (菊川英山) #2
Located in Norton, MA
Original woodblock work by " Three Geishas" Kikukawa Eizan (????) 1787-1867, depicting the traditional Japanese ladies with the traditional beautiful cu...
Category

Antique 19th Century Japanese Prints

Materials

Paper

Framed Japanese Kabuki Triptych Print with Samurai and Courtesan Actors
Located in Yonkers, NY
A Japanese ukiyo-e triptych, this framed Kabuki theater woodblock print captures the energy and drama of Edo-period performance. The scene unfolds across three panels, each meticulou...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Japanese Meiji Prints

Materials

Glass, Wood, Paint, Paper