Geisha playing a shamisen, a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument

The image shows a painting of a geisha playing a shamisen, a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument. Key facts about the shamisen and geishas include: The shamisen originated in China and came to Japan via the Ryukyu Islands (Okinawa) in the 16th century. It is a plucked string instrument with a long neck, typically around 30 inches. Geishas are Japanese entertainers skilled in traditional arts such as music, dance, and conversation. The shamisen is a common instrument used by geishas in their performances. Geishas often play the shamisen while singing or accompanying dances. The shamisen is considered an important instrument in Kyoto, where there is a large geisha population. Learning the shamisen is a key part of a geisha's training, along with other arts like calligraphy and tea ceremony. Historically, the shamisen was popular among street performers and geishas and was considered an instrument of the lower classes. Measures about 18" Tall x 8" wide.