Wang Zhaojun, said to be the most beautiful woman in China’s imperial palace, was sent to marry the king of Xiongnu during the reign of Emperor Yuan in the early Han Dynasty. This work shows the palace women watching the noble beauty, who was depicted in an unfavorable light in a portrait because she refused to bribe the painter, as they conceal a variety of emotions. An example of Hishida’s so-called moro-tai (vague-style) technique in which he avoided the use of distinct lines, the artist’s skillful shading creates a fluid texture and dreamy atmosphere.

(Designated an Important Cultural Propery on June 5, 1982)