This week we are celebrating International Women’s Day 2022 – A global celebration of the cultural, social, economic and political achievements of women.

Instead of the usual images of Bijin, Mothers or Courtesans as portrayed by male artists of the time, this year we thought we would turn the tables and showcase a beautiful Silk Embroidery signed by Koyohara Chiyoko and giving a rare insight into the female gaze.

It is unuusal to find works of art from the Meiji-era (1868 – 1912) signed by female artists and we think there is real humour that the one example of work by a female in our collection of Japanese Fine Art and Antiques depicts a gathering of inebriated men outside a hostellerie.

We hope you enjoy our alternative take on International Women’s Day but for something more traditional perhaps you can see our blog from last year by clicking here.

Wishing all our friends and followers a very Happy International Women’s Day 2022