Description
Goyo Hashiguchi's 1920 painting "Woman Holding Lipstick" stands as a distinctive example of the modern ukiyo-e movement, which fuses the traditions of Japanese printmaking with influences from Western painting, particularly Impressionism. Known for his refined techniques and ability to capture the essence of everyday life, Hashiguchi achieves a rich representation of femininity and the contemporary aesthetics of his time in this work.
The composition focuses on a seated female figure, uniting a sense of intimacy and delicacy through her pose and the expression on her face. The woman, dressed in a kimono that combines subtle patterns, is presented in a splendid balance between tradition and modernity. She holds a lipstick with one hand, which not only suggests the act of beautifying oneself, but can also be interpreted as a symbol of empowerment; lipstick, an instrument of personal expression in the realm of care and aesthetics, advocates a narrative that manages to transcend its mere functionality.
The handling of colour is another notable aspect of the work. Hashiguchi uses a palette that encompasses soft, natural tones, combining earthy hues with more vibrant shades that highlight the depth of the kimono and the delicacy of the model’s skin. The influence of light in the work provides an almost ethereal atmosphere; controlled reflections are complemented by subtle shadows to give dynamism and life to the figure. The choice of colours is not arbitrary; they seem to be carefully selected to evoke a sense of serenity and elegance, a reflection of femininity in the interwar era.
Looking at the technique, Hashiguchi uses both printmaking and oil painting, achieving a precision in detail that allows one to appreciate the texture of the fabric and the softness of the leather. This level of detail is characteristic of his work and aligns with the tradition of ukiyo-e, which emphasized both the beauty of the human figure and decorative elements. Hashiguchi’s mastery of fine lines and attention to detail visualize a world where beauty is intertwined with the simplicity of everyday life.
The historical context in which the work is set is equally relevant. The 1920s were a period of social transformation in Japan and the world, and Hashiguchi reflects in Woman Holding Lipstick the changing perception and role of women in society. The use of a modern object such as lipstick can be interpreted as a commentary on the new freedom and expectations placed on women in modernity.
As a whole, “Woman Holding Lipstick” not only exemplifies the evolution of ukiyo-e into new techniques and concepts, but also speaks to the intersection between everyday life and art. Goyo Hashiguchi’s work continues to resonate in the contemporary art world for its ability to capture the essence of its time, offering the viewer a window into the complexity and beauty of the female experience in a transformative era.
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