During the Edo period (1603 - 1868); the Japanese clock was divided into twelve units of time; or 鈥榟ours'; with each one named after one of the zodiacal symbols of the lunar calendar; and with the day being divided up into six daytime hours and six night-time hours.

This woodblock print is taken from Kitagawa Utamaro's 1794-1795 ukiyo-e series 'Twelve Hours of the Green Rooms'; sometimes styled 'Twelve Hours of the Yoshiwara'; featuring everyday events in the lives of courtesans in Edo's Yoshiwara pleasure district.

The Hour of the Tiger is around four o'clock in the morning. Feeling hungry; a courtesan cooks a light snack on a brazier. She warms her shoulders with the coat of her client. Another courtesan also awake; joins her in moment of intimacy and friendly conversation Pictures From History