Woman Waiting for the Moon to Rise

This young married woman is waiting on the moon. Leaning in on the banister, her beautiful hair contrasts her white skin perfectly. The red “naga-juban” (under clothes for a kimono) can be seen through the thin fabric. Shoen’s depiction of the woman’s neck and fine skin is outstanding. Her ability appeals to all viewers. The woman’s facial expression, and the large cut sky, give depth and make this painting into a delicate and noble work. This particular piece was painted during WWII and as a result it is said to capture Shoen’s feelings of that time. The thought of peace in the author’s head, expressed through this young woman, can be immediately imagined. Uemura Shōen was the pseudonym of an important woman artist in Meiji, Taishō and early Shōwa period Japanese painting. Her real name was Uemura Tsune. Shōen was known primarily for her bijinga paintings of beautiful women in the nihonga style, although she also produced numerous works on historical themes and traditional subjects. 

See you tomorrow :)