{"title":"Masterworks by Yoshitoshi","description":"\u003cp\u003eTsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) was a creative genius who lived during a time of great societal transformation. He was a consummate draftsman as well as a master at distilling a complex narrative to a single, emotionally poignant image. “100 Aspects of the Moon” was a series published during the final years of Yoshitoshi’s life, when he was at the height of his creative powers. He selected stories that were well-known and gave them an introspective twist, as well as a sophisticated relationship to the ever-changing moon. Egenolf Gallery recently acquired a complete set of this series in exceptional condition–to feel the full intention of the artist one must refer to early impressions, as the mastery of the printers and carvers must match the subtlety of the emotions of the characters. The Moon Series is often regarded today as Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece, and yet the majority of the designs are surprisingly affordable.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"yot685","title":"Yoshitoshi: Swordplay in Mud (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Swordplay in Mud\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Heroes of the Five Elements (Eiyû gogyô no uchi)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1867\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAkashi Gidayu is pursued through mud as he runs to Kyoto at the Battle of Amagasaki. This is the “Tsuchi” (earth) element of this series of the five elements. As he runs forward he fends off the pursuers at his heels, so his form is very dynamic as he sprints barefoot through the mud. A samurai bearing a naginata races over an earthen bridge towards the action in the foreground. Akashi Gidayu feels vulnerable to the viewer as he wears no armor or even footwear. Although the faces of the men here are in the style of Kuniyoshi, Yoshitoshi already has a very sophisticated mastery of design and pictorial storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression and color; very good condition. Folds at 1 cm from left of each sheet.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Triptych 36.3 x 73.5 cm\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keyes 196.1.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi hitsu\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29584595812434,"sku":"YOT685","price":3900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT685.jpg?v=1636736496"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-tattooed-lu-chin-shen-smashing-the-guardian-figure","title":"Yoshitoshi: Tattooed Lu Chin Shen Smashing the Guardian Figure (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tattooed Lu Chin Shen Smashing the Guardian Figure\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1887\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe complete title of this diptych is “Lu Chin Shen in a Drunken Rage Smashes the Guardian Figure at the Temple on the Five-Crested Mountain” (Rochishin ransui godaizan kongôjin o uchikowasu no zu). Early edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eSee “Yoshitoshi: Masterpieces from the Ed Freis collection” page 124, number 90. Keyes number 498.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression, color and condition. Slight soiling and light trimming\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical diptych 74 x 28 cm\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Matsui Eikichi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e carver seal: Negishi Chokuzan tô\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi with his seal \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32057975701586,"sku":"YOCS017","price":4500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS017.jpg?v=1584117867"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-raiko-eyes-a-spider","title":"Yoshitoshi: Raiko Eyes a Spider (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003eRaiko Eyes a Spider\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Ghost Stories of China and Japan (Wakan hyaku Monogatari)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1865\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMinamoto Yorimitsu Ason, also known as Raiko looks with suspicion at a palm-sized spider that has landed on his side table. Raiko was famous for slaying a giant earth spider, Tsuchigomo, which became the subject of a Noh play. Much like if today we saw Peter Parker staring at a spider, we would immediately know the association and the larger story, viewers at the time would immediately know the reference.  Kuniyoshi and Yoshitoshi have both portrayed this scene in a very different way, showing the spider as larger than a human being. As Stevenson notes, this quiet and allusive interpretation is unusual for the period and presages his his interest in projecting the inner thoughts of his subjects, not just their actions.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression, color and condition. Mint.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban (37.5 x 25.7 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003eBeaty \u0026amp; Violence, series #10.15. See Stevenson “Yositoshi’s Strange Tales”, number 15, page 58.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32209070063698,"sku":"YOCS012","price":2100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS012copy.jpg?v=1587250209"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-snow-iwakura-no-sogen-played-by-onoe-baiko","title":"Yoshitoshi: Snow: Iwakura no Sogen played by Onoe Baiko (SOLD)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Snow: Iwakura no Sogen played by Onoe Baiko\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e Snow, moon and flowers: Setsu Gekka no uchi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1890\/8 (Meiji 23)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOnoe Baikô V (Onoe Kikugorô V, 1844-1903) in the role of Sôgen in the play \u003ci\u003eHanafubuki\u003c\/i\u003e,. The priest Sôgen\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ehas been expelled from his temple after falling in love with the beautiful courtesan Irokotohime. Death has claimed her, so he is left with nothing but her memory. Tales of the priest Sôgen were first adapted to the kabuki theatre in the 1670s and since then many versions were written. Sôgen\/Seigen is a tragic figure who has nowhere to go after being expelled from his temple and roams the countryside in a pitiful state of starvation and longing. This a Yoshitoshi work that was done in his final years, when he was stricken with poverty and illness, yet his power of design is stronger than ever. A masterpiece of psychological intensity, Sogen’s hair has been uniquely printed with hairs that are the width of actual hairs, and his hands and bony frame stand out against the snowy landscape. He walks away from a smoky fire in an abandoned lean-to, spiderwebs seen in the upper corner. We feel the bitterness of the cold in the ice forming on the pine boughs as well as in the unforgettable expression of the actor’s visage. This is one of a series of three triptychs showing half-length portraits of actors from the series “Snow, Moon, Flowers”. This is the second state of the print, with the name of the actor in the title cartouche.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression; very good color; good condition. Trimmed and backed.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych (35.6 x 68.7 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eKeyes 1983, p. 493, no. 517.1. Segi 1985, pp. 98-99, no. 59. van den Ing \u0026amp; Schaap 1992, p. 90, no. 69.1 Akita Museum of Modern Art 1999, p. 24, no. 66. Ota Memorial Museum of Art 2012, pp. 144-145, no. 217. See British Museum online.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi ga with “Yoshitoshi” oval seal in red\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39617214578770,"sku":"YOCS058","price":5800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS058.jpg?v=1633333169"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-flute-player-triptych-sold","title":"Yoshitoshi: Flute Player Triptych (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Flute Player Triptych \u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e明治十五壬午季秋絵画共進会出品画藤原保昌月下弄笛図応需\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1883\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych each sheet approx 37.5 x 25.5 cm (76.5 cm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoshitoshi’s masterpiece, “The painting ‘Fujiwara Yasumasa Plays the Flute by Moonlight’, Exhibited at the National Painting Exhibition in the Autumn of 1882”. We see the poet Fujiwara no Yasumasa (958-1036) playing his flute beneath a full moon on Ichihara Moor. The bandit Hakamadare Yasusuke creeps up on him, intending to rob him of his opulent robes–however, Yasusuke is so arrested by the sound of the playing that he cannot draw his sword. The bandit is so entranced by the music and by Yasumasa’s poise that he follows Yasumasa home. Yasumasa then gifts him a robe of his own, giving the tale a surprisingly happy ending. This triptych was commissioned by the publisher Akiyama Buemon after Yoshitoshi submitted a painting of this scene to the Exhibition for the Advancement of National Painting in 1882. That painting is now in the collection of the Worcester Art Museum. Yoshitoshi’s teacher Kuniyoshi also created works with this famous subject, and Yoshitoshi designed a triptych in 1868 in his early style that looks completely different. Egenolf Gallery also has for sale the print with this subject that Yoshitoshi designed for 100 Aspects of the Moon. This triptych is widely considered Yoshitoshi’s greatest woodblock print design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good impression, color and condition. Completely untrimmed and unbacked. Some stains on margin of left sheet and some creasing. quite early state, before the separate seal with the name of the printer “Suri Tsune” was added to the left sheet. A fine layer of mica covers the entire work.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych each sheet approx 37 x 25 cm\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eSee “Beauty \u0026amp; Violence”, color plate 43, page 63. See MFA, FAMSF, Smithsonian, AIC, LACMA, Philiadelphia Museum of Art. Newland, Yoshitoshi (2011), #81; Shioya, \"Katsureki...,\" in Ukiyo-e geijutsu 147 (2004), p. 30, fig. 1; Shibuya Kuritsu Shôtô Bijutsukan, Musha-e (2003), #27; Ing \u0026amp; Schaap, Beauty \u0026amp; Violence (1992), #43; Ukiyo-e taikei 12 (1976), #27-29. Also shown in practically every catalog on this artist.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Taiso and Yoshitoshi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e zu ôju Taiso Yoshitoshi sha\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844174200914,"sku":"YOCS071","price":28000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS071.jpg?v=1647221715"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-triptych-of-swimming-carp","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Triptych of Swimming Carp (SOLD)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Triptych of Swimming Carp\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1889, 5th month\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eTriptych of Carp Swimming Beneath Wisteria. A cluster of Koi are shown swimming beneath wisteria in crystal-clear water. Yoshitoshi has captured the buoyancy, forms and movements of these large fish with accuracy, the water only hinted at, appearing as soft blue eddies. This seems to be Yoshitoshi’s only major design that is devoid of human figures, although each koi does have something of a personality. One koi breaks the surface at left, perhaps seeking some koi food. For decades this was considered Yoshitoshi’s greatest triptych design, especially in Japan. Scarce.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression. Very good color and condition. Minor trimming, although the important whisker of the dark koi in the middle sheet is still extant on the left sheet. Some soiling.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych 35.7 x 72 cm\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e “Beauty \u0026amp; Violence”, number 66, page 144. See Philadelphia Museum of Art, Minneapolis Institute of Art\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844174954578,"sku":"YOCS068","price":11000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS068.jpg?v=1647221608"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-hail-of-arrows-at-the-battle-of-shijonawate","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Hail of Arrows at the Battle of Shijonawate (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eTheater Reformation: Stories Gleaned at Yoshino, Picture of Kusunoki Masatsura Dying at the Battle of Shijonawate\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1886\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eYoshitoshi was a master of kabuki portraiture, as he captured both the pathos of the actors and the immediate drama of the story through selective realism, here bringing the viewer directly into the battlefield. We see Ichikawa Danjuro IX as Kusunoki Masatsura about to meet his end at the Battle of Shijonawate. His face has the bluish pallor of a doomed man, and the arrows of the enemy are falling around him like rain. He has a head wound and a determined yet rather dazed expression.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eHis hair flows down around him and he leans on his bloodied sword. He has somehow lost one shoe and shin covering during the battle.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eMasatsura was a supporter of the Southern Imperial Court during Japan’s Nanbokucho Wars in the 1340s. He was killed in this battle in February 1348 at the age of 22. \u003ci\u003eEngeki kairyô: Yoshino shui Shijônawata Kusu(noki) Masatsura uchijini no zu. 楠帯刀正行　市川団十郎. \u003c\/i\u003eThis is a very rare design from Yoshitoshi’s best period that is reminiscent of the Kuniyoshi double triptych from 1847 of this battle that also depicts Masatsura during his final moments. Scarce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression and color. Very good condition; some trimming. Backed.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Matsui\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eKeyes, Courage and Silence (1982), no. 489; Iwakiri, Yoshitoshi (2014), fig. 310, p. 300. See “Yoshitoshi: Masterpieces from the Ed Freis Collection”, page 134, number 100. See MIA (Freis Collection)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi \u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Oju Yoshitoshi\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844176068690,"sku":"YOCS064","price":7500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS064.jpg?v=1647221239"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-mount-yoshino-midnight-moon","title":"Yoshitoshi : Mount Yoshino Midnight-Moon (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mount Yoshino Midnight-Moon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1886\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe court lady Iga no Tsubone fearlessly confronts the ghost of Kiyotaka. Her\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ehair flows in a cascading length of elegance down her back as maple leaves float down beneath a full moon. Her trailing robes have been printed with an oxidizing lead pigment, which adds depth and a unique cast to the orange garment. The ghost is clutching at the title cartouche with his eerie fingers, which is a modern touch that seems to break the fourth wall. Kiyotaka’s ghost appears without feet as an apparition in shades of grey. He glares at her with yellow eyes, hovering on wings, which are a very unusual aspect of a Japanese ghost. She remains completely calm, which is apparently the best way to disarm a ghost; in fact, she successfully convinces the ghost to stop haunting the exiled court at Nara.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThe white of her robes\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eand the white of the cartouche have been blindprinted to mimic fabric. The full moon is mostly obscured by shadowy clouds, and both figures appear to float against a background that provides\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eno support beyond the moon. This design was chosen for the cover image for the important 1992 catalog on Yoshitoshi: “Beauty \u0026amp; Violence”.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression and color. Very good condition. Backed\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban  37.2 x 25.1 cm\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stevenson #15. Cover image for \"Beauty \u0026amp; Violence\", 1992. See Philadelphia Museum, MIA, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, MFA Boston, British Museum collections.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi no in\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844176298066,"sku":"YOCS069","price":3900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS069.jpg?v=1647220917"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-moon-above-the-sea-at-daimotsu-bay-benkei","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Moon Above the Sea at Daimotsu Bay: Benkei (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moon Above the Sea at Daimotsu Bay: Benkei\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon (Tsuki hyaku sugata)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1886\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe warrior-hero Benkei is seen fearlessly calming the storm aroused by the vengeful spirits of the vanquished Taira clan, whose monstrous shapes can be discerned in the clouds above. As he had some training as a Buddhist priest, he holds up his string of prayer beads and recites sutras for spiritual strength against the anger of the Taira ghosts. The surging wave seems to reach for the boat, the waters an inky black. The crest of the wave is shown in silhouette against the full, yellow moon. Although Benkei’s stature is small when compared with the waves, we can feel his fearless strength and the power that he holds. Considered one of the top designs in the series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eVery good impression, color and condition. Unbacked and untrimmed.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical (36.5 x 24.7 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stevens, John: “Yoshitoshi’s One Hundred Aspects of The Moon”, Hong Kong, 1988. #12\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Taiso\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844179869778,"sku":"YOCS065","price":4900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS065.jpg?v=1647221468"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-moon-over-the-moors-yasumasa","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Moon Over the Moors–Yasumasa (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moon Over the Moors–Yasumasa\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon: Tsuki hyakushi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1888\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAn unusual vantage point of the famous story of Fujiwara no Yasumasa playing the flute by moonlight, the outlaw Hakamadare Yasusake trailing him closely, wanting to rob him but captivated by his playing. This work was created a few years after his masterpiece triptych of the same subject, and Yoshitoshi has chosen a completely different angle. Here the two figures appear more human; even the full moon is smaller, while the wild grasses of the moor surround the two. Yasumasa’s fearless gait is captured, as we can feel he spring in his step with the motion of his outer robe. The story is from the Uji shui monogatari, compiled in the 13th century. It (rather unusually) has a happy ending, as Yasusake was gifted the robes he wanted to steal once Yasumasa made it home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression; very good color and condition. Backed.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban (36.2 x 24.4 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Takeemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Engraver: Yamamoto\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi with his seal\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844180426834,"sku":"YOCS072","price":2400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS072.jpg?v=1647221818"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-sogo-goro-gallops-bareback-to-oiso-triptych","title":"Yoshitoshi: Sogo Goro Gallops Bareback to Oiso Triptych (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eSoga no Goro Gallops Bareback to Ôiso to Avenge his Father’s Death\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1885\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWe feel the speed of the horse and the determination of the young rider in this amazing design, where the figures almost burst free from the page, and no background is visible, only the white of the wind. This is from the 12th century story, The Revenge of the Soga Brothers, which was a popular subject for Noh, bunraku and kabui. Here the young Soga no Goro uses a bamboo branch to goad his horse to speed in order to reach his brother; he uses a striped cloth as reins and seems to have only a rope to hooks his toes into as stirrups. His too-young face is determined, and the Chinese-style brushwork of the horse is done in a style that is rather unusual for a Yoshitoshi print, but conveys the vigor of the horse in a spectacular fashion.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThe translation of the brushstrokes into woodblock by the engravers\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eis also a testament to Meiji expertise. During Yoshitoshi’s time, everyone would have been very familiar with the story of the Soga Brothers, who avenged the killing of their father when they were still at a very tender age. This is the only Yoshitoshi print known to have been issued by the publisher Fukuda Yasush. Very scarce design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eSome trimming at top, but not on the sides, which matter more. Fold near left edge of rightmost sheet.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban Triptych 36 x 75 cm\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fukada Yasushi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eSee “Beauty \u0026amp; Violence” number 56, page 79. See Philadelphia Museum of Art, Metropolitan Museum of Art\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ôju Taiso Yoshitoshi\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844180852818,"sku":"YOCS063","price":9500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS063new.jpg?v=1647406087"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-onoe-kikugoro-v-as-the-hag-of-adachi","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Onoe Kikugoro V as the Hag of Adachi (SOLD)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Onoe Kikugorô V as the Hag of Adachi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1890\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOnoe Kikugorô V wields a large kitchen knife as the Hag of Adachi Moor, from the kabuki play “The Lonely House”. The poem reads: ‘Through the yûgao vines, a high wind moans at the eaves’. The kabuki actor Onoe Kikugorô was a close friend of Yoshitoshi, and here we feel the intimacy of their connection.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThe scene is from one of the most famous and terrifying stories in Japanese folklore, that of the bloodthirsty hag who lives alone on the moor, waiting for victims. Here Yoshitoshi presents a combination of what would have been seen on the kabuki stage by theatergoers with the shriveled and emaciated figure of a decrepit old crone of the imagination. These late kabuki triptychs are considered some of Yoshitoshi’s most powerful designs. He has pared down the background to just the yugao vine against a deep black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression. Very good color and condition.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e oban triptych (36.2 x 72 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Taiso; Block cutter is Hori Yû\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ôkokkeidôju Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844221485138,"sku":"YOT774","price":7900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT774.jpg?v=1647233367"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-heike-clan-beneath-the-sea-yoshitoshis-first-print","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Heike Clan Beneath the Sea (Yoshitoshi's first print) (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eBunji gannen Heike ichimon horobi kaichû ni ochiiru zu (In the first year of the Bunji era [1185], the Heike clan fell into the sea and perished) 文治元年平家の一門亡海中落入る圖).\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1853, 6th month\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eYoshitoshi’s first published woodblock print, issued when Yoshitoshi was only fourteen years of age. We can see the young man’s talent and confidence already evident here; he was tremendous right out of the gate. Yoshitoshi’s style is here very close to that of his teacher Kuniyoshi, and as he ages his style evolves to one that is unique, and his art keeps improving. Although this work seems to have been a success, for unknown reasons there is about a five-year gap before Yoshitoshi publishes another datable work in 1858. Here we see the defeat of the Taira (Heike) clan by the Genji clan at the battle of Dannoura in 1153. The central figure is Tomomori, who tied himself to an anchor and jumped into the sea once he saw that defeat was inevitable. This is from the second edition, published by Maruya Jinpachi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eVery good color and condition. Good impression.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e oban triptych (36.2 x 72 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maruya Jinpachi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ikkeisai Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844222238802,"sku":"YOT777","price":5800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT777.jpg?v=1647233289"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-ichikawa-kodanji-in-the-rain","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Ichikawa Kodanji in the Rain (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ichikawa Kodanji in the Rain\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1860\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIchikawa Kodanji IV as Torii Matasuke. The waves of his hair contrast with the boldly depicted sheets of rain that form a curtain around his dramatic countenance. The curtain parts to reveal the actor clenching a sword between his teeth, his eyes fixed in the mie dramatic pose. From the play Kagamiyama gonichi no Iwafuji. Matasuke plays a faithful servant who is about to commit a terrible crime on the orders of his master, Lord Toga. A fantastic and rare early design, created when Yoshitoshi was only about 20 years old.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression and color; very good condition. Barely visible center fold. With added mica on the sword and special printing effects on the hair.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban (36.5 x 25 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kadokin\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keyes number 17. See Beauty \u0026amp; Violence, number 2, page 32.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi hitsu\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844222763090,"sku":"YOCS062","price":5900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS062.jpg?v=1647233220"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-battle-of-ichinotani-vertical-diptych","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年 : Battle of Ichinotani 一ノ谷の戦い (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Battle of Ichinotani  一ノ谷の戦い\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1885\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFrom the “Tale of Heike”, we see the sixteen-year-old Taira no Atsumori in the distance, swimming at sea on his horse. The retreating Taira forces had been driven into the sea by the enemy, and he arrived too late to board a boat.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eOur perspective is from that of the Genji warrior Kumagai Naozane, who raises his flag in challenge to the young man in the distance. The plovers rise up in a curving line, and his battle cape flows with the wind. His own garment contains a plover pattern, so the nonstop movement is continued with the flying plovers and their swerving, diagonal ascent. When Atsumori returned to the shore to fight, Naozane felt some guilt to fight a man as young as his own son, but he had no choice but to follow through. The Battle of Ichinotani took place in 1184, which Minamoto no Yoshitsune led and won. It was woven into the Tale of the Heike. Yoshitoshi was a genius at utilizing this vertical format to its strongest advantage.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression, color and condition.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical diptych (75.4 x 25.6 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Matsui Eikichi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e See “Beauty \u0026amp; Violence” figure 58, page 138. See also “The Splendid Decadent, figure 39 page 139.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi no in\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ôju Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844223320146,"sku":"YOCS066","price":6900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS066.jpg?v=1647233779"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-rin-chu-kills-officer-riku-vertical-diptych","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年 : Rin Chu Kills Officer Riku vertical diptych","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rin Chu Kills Officer Riku near the Temple of the Mountain Spirit (Hyôshitô Rin Chû sanshinbyô no mae ni oito riku gukô o korosu)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1886\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis story is from chapter 10 of the Chinese novel \"108 Tales of the Suikoden\". The Minister of war, Gao, has ordered his officer Riku to kill Rinchu and to make it look like an accident. Riku sets\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003efire to Rinchu’s guardhouse, but Rinchu was away visiting a temple when the fire was started.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eRinchu then surprised his would-be assassin, killing him instead. Yoshitoshi has chosen to illustrate the moment after the violence, blood still fresh on weapons. Rinchu is turning to look at the fire, his flowing hair and beard caught by the wind, heavy snowflakes falling all around. He wears Chinese robes, as the story is set in China. This must be why the icy mountain is rather unusually structured, as the scenery of foreign landscapes that were done by his teacher Kuniyoshi always had a heightened sense of unusualness to them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression and color. Good\/very good condition. Prints are attached and backed, and white margin at left is trimmed. Also some small hinging remnants, verso.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical diptych (71.6 x 24.3 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Matsui Eikichi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eKeyes 1983, p. 476, no. 492. Segi 1985, p. 72, no. 88. van den Ing \u0026amp; Schaap (Beauty \u0026amp; Violence) 1992, p. 83, no. 61. Ota Memorial Museum of Art 2012, p. 136, no. 198. Iwakiri 2014, p. 145, no. 217.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi no in\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ôju Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39844225548370,"sku":"YOCS070","price":2500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOCS070.jpg?v=1647234453"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-explosion-at-masakiyos-challenging-battle","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Explosion at Masakiyo's Challenging Battle (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eMasakiyo’s Challenging Battle (Masakiyo nansen no zu)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1866\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eA massive exploding mine throws bodies tumbling into the air. Note how graphically modern the explosion looks, with jets of flame interspersed with whorls of smoke and smaller starbursts. The jets of flame have been printed with several types of lead pigment which have oxidized to imitate a scorching fire. Although the setting is putatively one of the 14th c. Taiheiki battles, Keyes suggested that it alludes to actions against rebel samurai in\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eChoshu province during the summer of 1866. Another layer is that the figure on horseback on the right is named Masakiyo, a veiled reference to Kato Kiyomasa (1562-1611).\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eOne of Yoshitoshi’s greatest early triptychs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression and color; very good condition. Folds at 1 cm from left of each sheet and some backing remnants, verso.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych (36.8 x 73.5 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yamajin\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eSee Met Museum website. Keyes #178. See “Yoshitoshi” (2011), cat. 44, page 82. See MET Museum, Minneapolis Institute of Art, NYPL, FAMSF.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kiri\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ikkeisai Yoshitoshi hitsu\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39899020329042,"sku":"YOT791","price":8800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT791copy2.jpg?v=1650164991"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-moon-of-pure-snow-at-asano-river-chikako-the-filial-daughter","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Moon of Pure Snow at Asano River–Chikako, the Filial Daughter (SOLD)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eMoon of Pure Snow at Asano River–Chikako, the Filial Daughter\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon: Tsuki hyakushi 月百姿\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1885\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eChikaku is shown with her hands in a position of prayer as she jumps into the freezing Asano River. She believes that her own sacrifice will help the cause of her father, who has been jailed for virtuous deeds that the authorities felt compelled to punish him for. This design is as heartbreaking as it is beautiful; her face is determined yet hopeful and her brightly patterned clothes seem to almost bear her aloft. Perhaps the two snowy herons ascending to the sky are an allusive hope that she and her father will both ascend to a heavenly place for their sacrifices. She is alone, and the yellow\/pink full moon is her witness as it rises over the snowy landscape.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression, color and condition.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban (35.6 x 24 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi with his seal\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40144564748370,"sku":"YOT804","price":3600.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT804.jpg?v=1663101958"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-moon-above-the-sea-at-daimotsu-bay-benkei","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Moon Above the Sea at Daimotsu Bay: Benkei (SOLD)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moon Above the Sea at Daimotsu Bay: Benkei\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon (Tsuki hyaku sugata)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1886\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe warrior-hero Benkei is seen fearlessly calming the storm aroused by the vengeful spirits of the vanquished Taira clan, whose monstrous shapes can be discerned in the clouds above. As he had some training as a Buddhist priest, he holds up his string of prayer beads and recites sutras for spiritual strength against the anger of the Taira ghosts. The surging wave seems to reach for the boat, the waters an inky black. The crest of the wave is shown in silhouette against the full, yellow moon. Although Benkei’s stature is small when compared with the waves, we can feel his fearless strength and the power that he holds. Considered one of the top designs in the series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eExcellent impression, color and condition. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical (35.5 x 24 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stevens, John: “Yoshitoshi’s One Hundred Aspects of The Moon”, Hong Kong, 1988. #12\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Taiso\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40145030414418,"sku":"YOT805","price":5000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT805.jpg?v=1663128359"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-moon-over-mount-inaba","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Moon Over Mount Inaba (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Inaba Mountain Moon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon 月百姿 (Tsuki hyaku sugata)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1885\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWe see a fearless soldier (presumedly the famous Toyotomi Hideyoshi) scaling the cliff face of Mount Inaba in order to penetrate Gifu castle for Oda Nobunaga in 1564. Yoshitoshi has surprised us with the giant full moon placed below the foot of this famous military man, giving us a sense of the height of the cliff that he is scaling. Upon reaching the castle, he was to give the signal to the waiting army below by raising water-gourds on bamboo poles. Here we see his water-gourd tied to his back, along with his katana sword which is seen here as a strong diagonal element. The susuki grass that is silhouetted against the moon gives a sense of being in a wild and deserted place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eVery good impression and condition; excellent color.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical (35.5 x 24 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stevens, John: “Yoshitoshi’s One Hundred Aspects of The Moon”, Hong Kong, 1988. #7. See British Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Portland Art Museum, RISD Museum collections.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi no in\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40150226042962,"sku":"YOT815","price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT815.jpg?v=1663566998"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-the-moon-is-blocked-by-the-mio-pine-groves-takeda-shingen","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: The moon is blocked by the Mio pine groves...Takeda Shingen (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe moon is blocked by the Mio pine groves...Takeda Shingen\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon 月百姿 (Tsuki hyaku sugata)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1886\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe infamous 16th c. warlord Takeda Shingen gazes at Mount Fuji, his presence as immovable as the mountain itself. Shingen spent his life on endeavors attempting to unify Japan by military force.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eHis own province was landlocked--here he floats on a golden cloud from an impossible vantage point; perhaps it is his spirit looking down on the obstacles that faced him in life. He fought many campaigns over the years to seize the province that included Mount Fuji. The poem reads: “On the coast at Kiyomi even the sky bars the way\/ The moon is blocked by the Mio pine groves.” His robe is printed with an extra pattern of lacquer-mimicking overprinting, as are his bearskin boots. His white-haired helmet is also beautifully embossed in this early impression, as well as the white title cartouche. With lovely woodgrain in the sky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression, color and condition.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical (35.5 x 24 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stevens, John: “Yoshitoshi’s One Hundred Aspects of The Moon”, Hong Kong, 1988. #41. See Library of Congress collection online.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Taiso\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40152917442642,"sku":"YOT813","price":1300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT813.jpg?v=1663735707"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-moon-over-the-moors-yasumasa-1","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Moon Over the Moors–Yasumasa (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moon Over the Moors–Yasumasa\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeries:\u003c\/strong\u003e One Hundred Aspects of the Moon: Tsuki hyakushi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1888\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAn unusual vantage point of the famous story of Fujiwara no Yasumasa playing the flute by moonlight, the outlaw Hakamadare Yasusake trailing him closely, wanting to rob him but captivated by his playing. This work was created a few years after his masterpiece triptych of the same subject, and Yoshitoshi has chosen a completely different angle. Here the two figures appear more human; even the full moon is smaller, while the wild grasses of the moor surround the two. Yasumasa’s fearless gait is captured, as we can feel he spring in his step with the motion of his outer robe. The story is from the Uji shui monogatari, compiled in the 13th century. It (rather unusually) has a happy ending, as Yasusake was gifted the robes he wanted to steal once Yasumasa made it home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression, color and condition.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban (36.2 x 24.4 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Takeemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Engraver: Yamamoto\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi with his seal\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40381389111378,"sku":"YOT855","price":2900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/products\/YOT855.jpg?v=1679697914"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-saigo-takamori-composing-a-poem-as-kirino-is-treated-by-a-doctor","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Saigo Takamori Composing a Poem as Kirino is Treated by A Doctor (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) 芳年\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003e“Saigō and Kirino compose poems in the sunshine of the peak of the Takachiho region.” Hinata no kuni Takachiho no mine ni Takamori Kirino to dōi no shika o ginzuru zu. 日向 之 國 髙千穂 の 峯 に? 隆盛 桐野 と 同意 の 詩歌 を 吟ずる 圖 (国) (高千穂).\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1877, 10th month, 3rd day\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSaigo Takamori is seated center in his western-style uniform and seated on a western-style, thronelike chair. He composes a poem (or letter), and is surrounded by his men and an elder advisor who is seated at right and holds a western-style goblet of drink. To the left is a very stoic Kirino, his bandaged arm being attended to by what seems to be a physician, scalpel in hand. Behind them are western-style vases, and beneath their feet is a western-style carpet or flooring. It is well known that Yoshitoshi was very sympathetic to Saigo Takamori, who led the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877 against the Meiji government, the same government that he had helped to install a few years earlier. Saigo was considered a hero of the samurai class, as he objected to their loss of stature following the Meiji restoration. Kirino Toshiaki also fought for the Imperial Army until he joined forces with Saigo Takamuri in the march northward to Kumamoto. Kirino remained with Takamori until the end, when he was killed at the conclusion of the rebellion. The two were buried together among others at the Nanshu Cemetary in Kagoshima. Kirino’s wife Hisa was a skilled martial artist who led the women’s auxiliary troops during the uprising, and she survived into the 20th century. This must be a somewhat scarce design, as no other complete examples could be found. The title given by Keyes is thus: \"Saigō and Kirino compose poems on Takachiho Peak”, so Keyes may not have actually seen an example of this work in person. Only Saigo seems to be composing a poem, and an attendant kneels next to him holding the writing set. The black areas of the composition have been burnished to create the lacquer-imitating sheen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression, color and condition. Unbacked and untrimmed.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych 36.7 x 75 cm\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keyes 1983, number 391$.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Oju Taiso Yoshitoshi hitsu\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40450016247890,"sku":"YOT878","price":875.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/files\/YOT878.jpg?v=1686595440"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-rustic-genji-田舎源氏-lovers-on-the-moors","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年 : Rustic Genji 田舎源氏 (Lovers on the Moors) (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eRustic Genji 田舎源氏 (Inaka Genji)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1885\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eScene from the Inaka Genji, the Genji-based novel by Ryutei Tanehiko\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ethat was published in serialized form in 1829-1842 and took Edo culture by storm. Yoshitoshi here shows the protagonist Mitsuuji (the updated Genji) and his lover Tasogare as they flee her mother’s supervision to spend the night together in an old temple. Mitsuuji has wrapped a bamboo blind around them to aid their escape; both look out nervously as the wind whips her clothes and kerchief. They are isolated on the desolate moor, surrounded by plume-grass. Their feet form a circle, echoing the circle of the blind; here they must be disoriented as they search for the light of the temple in the distance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAccording to the Smithsonian website, “The implicit eroticism of this vertical diptych by Yoshitoshi led to a judgment by Meiji government censors that it was injurious to public morals. One of the objections was that one of Mitsuuji's hands is not visible. The artist is said to have responded that if everything is depicted, the flavor is lost. Despite the controversy it aroused, this print represents a high point in Yoshitoshi's artistic renderings of dramatic scenes in beautiful natural settings imbued with deep lyricism and human emotion.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe see a cuckoo flying against the patterned storm clouds as streaks of rain begin to fall. A three-quarter moon shines overhead. Beautiful, early edition of this famous design, printed on rather heavy paper. Here the clouds and surroundings all have extra bokashi shading that gives richness and depth to the scene.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition: \u003c\/strong\u003eExcellent impression, color and condition. Tiny nibble at bottom right corner.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban vertical diptych (72 x 24.9 cm)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Matsui Eikichi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eRoger Keyes, Courage and Silence, 1983, p. 458, no. 474. Shinichi Segi, Yoshitoshi the Splendid Decadent, 1985, p. 81, no. 50; Akita Museum of Modern Art, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi: The Last Ukiyo-e Artist of Genius, 1999, p. 28, no. 84; Andreas Marks, Genji's World in Japanese Woodblock Prints, 2012, p. 153, nos. 144-145; Ota Memorial Museum of Art, Tsukioka Yoshitoshi: 120th Memorial Retrospective, 2012, p. 129, no. 192; Yuriko Iwakiri, Yoshitoshi, 2014, p. 144, no. 214.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yoshitoshi \u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ôju Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40634181288018,"sku":"YOT876","price":5900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/files\/YOT876copy.jpg?v=1701757064"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-flute-player-triptych-reserved","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Flute Player Triptych (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Flute Player Triptych \u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e明治十五壬午季秋絵画共進会出品画藤原保昌月下弄笛図応需\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1883\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych each sheet approx 37.5 x 25.5 cm (76.5 cm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoshitoshi’s masterpiece, “The painting ‘Fujiwara Yasumasa Plays the Flute by Moonlight’, Exhibited at the National Painting Exhibition in the Autumn of 1882”. We see the poet Fujiwara no Yasumasa (958-1036) playing his flute beneath a full moon on Ichihara Moor. The bandit Hakamadare Yasusuke creeps up on him, intending to rob him of his opulent robes–however, Yasusuke is so arrested by the sound of the playing that he cannot draw his sword. The bandit is so entranced by the music and by Yasumasa’s poise that he follows Yasumasa home. Yasumasa then gifts him a robe of his own, giving the tale a surprisingly happy ending. This triptych was commissioned by the publisher Akiyama Buemon after Yoshitoshi submitted a painting of this scene to the Exhibition for the Advancement of National Painting in 1882. That painting is now in the collection of the Worcester Art Museum. Yoshitoshi’s teacher Kuniyoshi also created works with this famous subject, and Yoshitoshi designed a triptych in 1868 in his early style that looks completely different. This triptych is widely considered Yoshitoshi’s greatest woodblock print design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression, color and condition. A fine layer of mica covers the entire work.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych each sheet approx 37 x 25 cm\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Akiyama Buemon\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e See MFA, FAMSF, Smithsonian, AIC, LACMA, Philiadelphia Museum of Art. Newland, Yoshitoshi (2011), #81; Shioya, \"Katsureki...,\" in Ukiyo-e geijutsu 147 (2004), p. 30, fig. 1; Shibuya Kuritsu Shôtô Bijutsukan, Musha-e (2003), #27; Ing \u0026amp; Schaap, Beauty \u0026amp; Violence (1992), #43; Ukiyo-e taikei 12 (1976), #27-29. Also shown in practically every catalog on this artist.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Taiso and Yoshitoshi\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e zu ôju Taiso Yoshitoshi sha\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40690766118994,"sku":"YOT902","price":38000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/files\/YOT902copy.jpg?v=1705897292"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-raiko-conquering-the-shuten-doji-demon-of-oe-mountain","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Raiko Conquering the Shuten Doji Demon of Oe Mountain (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTitle: \u003c\/strong\u003eRaiko Conquering the Shuten Doji Demon of Oe Mountain (Raiko shitenno Oeyama kijin taiji)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1864\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych (37.1 x 77.7 cm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eYoshitoshi has immortalized the moment where all looks lost, just moments before the hero Raiko (Minamoto Yorimitsu) slays the terrible drunken ogre Shuten-doji. The enormous demon seems just about to crush Raiko with his giant hand, as the hero stands poised at center with both hands on his sword, about to deliver the decapitating blow. The scene is dynamic yet controlled, with the ogre’s form filling all three sheets and Raiko and his men raising their swords from all angles. In a humorous touch, one samurai hangs from his enormous left arm while another seems immobilized by the giant’s right arm. We see the monster’s kidnapped women fleeing the scene, and the Shuten-doji’s demonic henchmen also trying to escape the melee. The Shuten-doji’s robe contains oxidizing orange-lead pigment and his entire form has oversized impact due to the giant brushstrokes that comprise all parts of him. His teeth are black and his glare is ferocious, his fearsome face the focal point of the entire scene. Although only 25 at the time, Yoshitoshi shows so much maturity and confidence as an artist; all of the elements of the design work together while remaining distinct and readable to the eye. The famous story of the Shuten-doji is well known; the monster terrorized the area around its lair and kidnapped women near Kyoto until the people begged Minamoto Yorimitsu, Raiko, for help. Raiko and his men then visit the monster, get him drunk and proceed to cut off his head. Kuniyoshi, Yoshitoshi’s teacher, depicted this story numerous times. Indeed, ukiyo-e artists have depicted the story since Moronobu’s series on this story was published about 1680. Raiko is accompanied by his four legendary retainers, who include\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eWatanabe no Tsuna and Sakata no Kintoki, both heroes that Kuniyoshi also liked to portray. We see the roots of Japanese manga and anime here, with terrific action in play in every part of the design, all supporting the narrative. A scarce design in excellent condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFrom right to left: Ukyō Gon-no-daibu Fujiwara Yasumasa, Takiguchi Utoneri Watanabe Tsuna, Kageyu Jikan Urabe Suetake (R); Sesshū Ason Minamoto Yorimitsu, Yugei-no-jō Usui Sadamitsu (C); Shume Sakata Kintoki. R: 右京権大夫藤原保昌, 滝口内舎人渡辺綱, 勘解由次官卜部季武; C: 摂州朝臣源頼光, 靱屓尉碓井定光; L: 主馬佐酒田公時.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression, color and condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych each sheet approx 37 x 25 cm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kiya Sojiro\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiterature: \u003c\/strong\u003eSee Minneapolis Museum of Art, Freis collection and catalog. Keyes, Courage and Silence (1982), no. 117; Iwakiri, Yoshitoshi (2014), p. 18–19 no. 18, p. 298. See “Yokai: Strange Beasts \u0026amp; Weird Spectres: 100 Japanese Triptychs” book, page 079.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ikkeisai Yoshitoshi ga\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40766760517714,"sku":"YOT886","price":14900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/files\/YOT886copy.jpg?v=1709864335"},{"product_id":"yoshitoshi-芳年-imperial-carriage-crossing-the-oi-river-for-the-restoration-of-imperial-rule-ceremony","title":"Yoshitoshi 芳年: Imperial Carriage Crossing the Oi River for the Restoration of Imperial Rule Ceremony (Sold)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 芳年 (1839-1892)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Picture of Landscape at the Ôi River on the Tokaido 東海道大井川風景之圖\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1868, 8th month\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFascinating “reportage” of the scene of the Imperial carriage crossing the Ôi River on the Tokaido in 1867, heading to Tokyo\/Edo. The occasion was no less than the ceremony ”taisei hôkan” 大政奉還,\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ethe restoration of the imperial rule–the transfer of the power from Tokugawa Bakufu, the shogun Tokugawa Yoshinobu, back to Emperor Kômei, whose death followed shortly after. The Meiji emperor succeeded subsequently. In the center of the procession in the river, we see the imperial carriage with a golden phoenix on the roof, hôren 鳳輦\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ewhich is flanked by rows of soldiers, some carrying the red imperial flag with white chrysanthemum. We see the westernizing changes that are evident in the dress and weapons of the imperial guardsmen; many of them are wearing western jackets and hats and carry rifles instead of swords. They ford the river in orderly lines of formation, each group carrying banners, flags, and standards of many shapes and sizes. Some of the banners take several men to hold aloft, and the flapping in the wind of the banner at right shows a great deal of effort on the part of the artist as well as the standard-bearers. The front man holding this large banner-pole even walks backwards so that he can make sure to keep the pole completely straight. The mounted horseguard contingent is dressed entirely in the traditional Japanese style; it seems to be the only one that has stuck to tradition completely. On the far shore are ranks of men in perfect rows, all of them kneeling towards the emperor. Behind them are the curtains of the encampment. Mount Fuji rises behind the waiting men, no doubt a scene of the strength of Japan. The scene is so detailed that one wonders if Yoshitoshi really saw this himself, or at least something similar. Yoshitoshi signed it “made upon order”, so perhaps it was commissioned by the Imperial government itself. Scarce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent impression and color; very good\/good condition. Some wrinkles and nibbles to right edges of paper. Completely untrimmed at top and left.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e ôban triptych each sheet approx 37.6 x 25 cm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yamashiro-ya Jinbei\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLiterature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keyes number 229. \u003cstrong\u003eSignature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kaisai Yoshitoshi made upon order 応需魁斎芳年画\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tsukioka Yoshitoshi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41225457795154,"sku":"YOT921","price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/files\/YOT921copy.jpg?v=1728509735"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0079\/3388\/6546\/collections\/YOCS063_new_title.jpg?v=1647406444","url":"https:\/\/egenolfgallery.com\/collections\/masterworks-by-tsukioka-yoshitoshi-asia-week-2022-virtual-exhibition\/meiji.oembed","provider":"Egenolf Gallery Japanese Prints","version":"1.0","type":"link"}