A delicate 18th-century Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Nishikawa Sukenobu, capturing a quiet moment of musical instruction between a woman and her teacher.

This woodblock print by Nishikawa Sukenobu depicts a domestic scene involving a young woman playing the shamisen, a three-stringed Japanese instrument, while a man sits before her with a book and a small wooden block. Sukenobu was a prominent artist based in Kyoto, and his work often focused on the daily lives of women, fashion, and cultural practices of the Edo period. Unlike the later, more stylised prints of the Edo school, Sukenobu maintained a focus on the grace and posture of his subjects. The composition is balanced, with the two figures arranged in a seated position on the floor. The woman is dressed in a patterned kimono featuring floral motifs, while the man wears a more subdued, geometric-patterned garment. The lines are clean and precise, characteristic of the early Ukiyo-e style. The colour palette is muted, relying on soft earth tones, faded reds, and blacks, which have aged to create a gentle, weathered appearance on the paper. The inclusion of the open book and the small block suggests a formal lesson, providing a glimpse into the educational and artistic pursuits of the time. Sukenobu was known for his extensive work in book illustration, which influenced the narrative quality of his single-sheet prints. His ability to capture the quiet concentration of his subjects makes this piece a representative example of his output. The print avoids excessive ornamentation, allowing the viewer to focus on the interaction between the teacher and the student. The paper texture remains visible, adding to the authentic feel of this historical document. This print offers an insight into the social customs of 18th-century Japan, specifically the importance of musical training and literacy within the urban classes.