Provenance

Michael and Jane Wilson, Wilson Centre for Photography, London, acquired 1991; gift to NGA, 2012.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

by unknown hand, top center in graphite: 19B [6?]9; upper center in graphite: 68; lower right in graphite: 91.4426; lower right in graphite: B; on verso, center left in graphite: 69; center in typeset print on paper label: MUSICAL PARTY. / The three instruments here shown are those in most general use, and the proficiency in / playing of which, is regarded as not only an accomplishment, but a necessary part of the education of / any young lady of finished a[c]quirements. / The large oe or "Kioto" is regarded as the best and is doubtless the one of greatest com- / pass, and is more generally used by those who move in the higher circles of Japanese society. / The "Biwa" (in the centre) is looked upon as the oldest musical instrument in the country / and has been in use from the earliest days of history or of song. / The "Samising" is a more universal favourite and is essentially the instrument of the / lower classes.
[This label describes NGA object 2012.137.83. There is no matching descriptive label for this photograph in the collection.]

Wikidata ID

Q64147537