Art Archive • Utamaro
Ukiyo-e
Ten Physiognomies
Woman Combing Her Hair (Kamisuki)
髪を直す女
Known as “Kamisuki” from the series Ten Types of Women’s Physiognomies (c. 1792–93). Utamaro typifies Edo femininity through occupation and gesture; here daily body care becomes high art.
Hand mirror rim — the metal edge, grip, and implied reflection reward zoom; cold glass against warm skin.
Hairline drawing — follow single lines from nape to neck; see where Utamaro breaks and reconnects strokes.
Collar patterns — kimono structure at the collar reads as everyday narrative closed into one figure.
Comb the image slowly — the quiet of the room is the subject.
Extended Japanese viewing notes: 髪を直す女.