A tanzaku-e sized set of two prints from a set of twelve luxuriously-printed designs with explicit designs and their accompanying prints depicting a more modest image. The text on the right print is either a dialogue between the two protagonists or a commentary on the left print.
Mutual Masturbation
In this case the left print portrays an affectionate couple performing mutual masturbation in a dreamlike setting. An American lantern stands in the background. The right print depicts a discreet image with additional Japanese text which is the actual dialogue between the couple in the left image.
Let’s take a look at the translation of this dialogue below the picture:
Intimate couple in front of an American lantern (c.1830) attributed to Utagawa Kunisada
Bed dialogue (with American lantern):
Man: “The light is totally different from the light of candles or floor lamps: it’s just brighter and our “game” gets more interesting. I see your and my “thing” much clearer. It’s great.”
Woman: “I think it’s too bright, I am ashamed.”
Man: “It seems like I am involved with an American lady.”
Excerpt from the above print
Kunisada’s competitor Keisai Eisen (1790-1848) designed a similar design in a horizontal perspective:
Mutual masturbation (c.1820s) by Keisai Eisen
Young couple caressing each other’s private parts (early 20th century) by an unknown artist
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