Kitao Shigemasa

Born Tarōkichi in 1739 in Edo (modern Tokyo), Kitao Shigemasa, also known by names like Kōsuisai and Karan, emerged as a prominent ukiyo-e artist. He was the eldest son of bookseller Suharaya Mohei, and though he initially taught himself art, he later studied under Nishimura Shigenaga. Shigemasa quickly became known for his captivating *bijin-ga*, or images of beautiful women, initially echoing the delicate style of Suzuki Harunobu. His early career saw works like "The Maple…