Wedgwood achieves the effect of a woodcut print in this series of Japanese female musicians set in simply defined interior spaces.  A black and white diamond patterned floor contrasts with the lush embroidered florals of the musicians' robes.   A line of yellow cabinetry in the background defines the meeting of floor and wall, creating a sense of intimate space.  Finally a delicate spray of blossoms hangs down from above the figure -- almost a visual symbol of the delicate music about to fill the room  .     

The border consists of panels of  Japanese-derived pattern, executed in gilt and peach, alternating with  floral reserves highlighted  in blue, green, yellow, pink and coral.   

Two additional plates, with musicians in black robes, are available, listed separately on this site.

Ceramic designers attempting to capitalize on the late 19th century Japan mania could choose between several strategies. They could go with an asymmetrical composition emphasizing strong diagonals. They could utilize Japanese patterns or motifs like the circular crests or mons. Often specific Japanese buildings, objects and plant material were depicted. Wedgwood, perhaps more than any other, emulated the look of the Japanese woodblock print with their bold compositions, clear colors and shallow sense of space. The effect is almost that of a print mounted onto the ceramic surface.