La Rinascente (big store in Milano, near the Scala opera) displaying “Geisha” inspired front windows
La Rinascente (big store in Milano, near the Scala opera) displaying “Geisha” inspired front windows (photos found here and here)What I like: The colors and general atmosphere which look nice under Christmas lights. Their headress include big headphones: so cute!The kitsuke looks neaaarly right too, it’s a big improvement considering what I’ve seen done in other Madama Butterfly productions!What I don’t like: The mess which is this joke of a nihongami:The fact that once again, communication around this event stresses the sexuals innuendossurrounding “Geisha” (who are in fact maiko here)In the Stampa interview,designer Alvis Hermanissays : “[Why This subject?] Because I wanted the geisha back? Because even from behind kimono are spectacular. And in Japan, one of the most erotic parts of the female body is the nape, with no make up, just a little bare skin”. Yes, it’s true. As ankles were once erotic in prudish Western countries…Come on guys, could we just move on from the Asian fetish once in a while? Especially for a window display which has nothing sexual at first sight? And especially since you already inspired yourself from Madama Butterfly, a story cringe worthy enough by itself (issue covered in this excellent podcast).I feel like a sullen old lady but that cliché really bugs me… -- source link
#japan#milano#rinascente#geisha#maiko#history#asian women#cliché#trope#yellow fever