Osen of the Kagiya Teahouse

Suzuki Harunobu

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The narrow rectangular shape of this pillar print creates an arresting image of Osen, the popular waitress of the Kagiya teahouse at the Kasamori Inari Shrine in Edo. The height of the willowy Osen is accentuated by the tall slender post of the torii gate partially visible at right. The pillar, roof, and lantern of the teahouse as well as the footed table of cakes restrict the area of the print even more, while simultaneously identifying the woman portrayed as Osen and enhancing her gracefulness. Written on the lantern are the name of the shop, Kagiya, and Oyasumi dokoro, meaning "rest stop." This depiction of Osen turning back to look at a cuckoo in flight is not a mere snapshot but a memorable pose of her essential charm and striking appearance. This print presents the beautiful Osen more as a popular icon than as part of a narrative scene.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art