Yoshitoshi: The Ghost of Genji's Lover, Yugao (Sold)

Artist: Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
Title: The Yugao Chapter from the Tale of Genji
Series: One Hundred Aspects of the Moon
Date: 1886

One of the top designs in this series, we see the ghost of Yugao wafting through her garden beneath a full moon. The moonflowers are in full bloom and surround her translucent figure. Yugao was one of Prince Genji’s lovers. She lived in a dilapidated house surrounded by an overgrown garden. After exchanging poetry, the two consummated their passions one night. She then died, killed by the jealous spirit of one of Genji’s former lovers. The Tale of Genji was written in the 11th century by Lady Murasaki and is considered the world’s first novel. All of the viewers of this print when it was issued would have been very familiar with the story.

Condition: Very good impression, color and condition. Fold near left margin and very minor restoration near bottom corner.
Dimensions: ôban (36.2 x 25.1 cm)
Publisher: Akiyama Takeuemon
Literature: Stevenson #29. Beauty & Violence, page 74 number 54.28.
Seal: Taiso
Signature: Yoshitoshi

SKU: YOC752