Shibata Zeshin: Red-haired Wild Beings at Sea Fan Print (Sold)

Artist: Shibata Zeshin (1807-1891)
Title: Red-haired Wild Beings at Sea
Date: ca. 1850s-60s

Five wild, red-haired beings seem adrift in the ocean in a large white object that has coral clinging to the front. They are mostly naked but for one wearing a grass skirt, and one dips an abalone shell into the water. These are not familiar characters to this dealer nor to her Japanese translator, but they must be based in Japanese folklore. This work was previously mounted as a fan print (uchiwa-e) on a bamboo frame, and still retains the rib-marks of the mount. Very scarce design; possibly unique. Zeshin produced fan paintings while a student of Suzuki Nanrei; these were good enough to impress Utagawa Kuniyoshi. Zeshin has used the seal "Tairyu-o" that may translate as “The master-gentleman from opposite the willows.”

Condition: Good impression, color and condition. 
Dimensions: approx 23 x 24 cm
Signature: Zeshin

SKU: ZECS012