Shibata Zeshin: Hanging Gourds and Zooming Swallows (Sold)

Artist: Shibata Zeshin (1807-1891)
Title: Drying Gourds and Barn Swallows
Series: Hana kurabe (A Comparison of Flowers)
Date: ca. 1880

An array of gourds of varying shapes and sizes are hanging to dry, presumably from a rafter. Two small barn swallows flit between the shapes. This is an early impression of this appealing work, with excellent colors.  The series Hana Kurabe was published between 1875 and 1890 in ten groups of 12 prints each, and showcase Zeshin’s terrific mastery of the Rimpa style as well as his sly sense of humor. Zeshin was considered one of the greatest lacquer artists of all time, and he was a superlative painter as well.

Condition: Excellent impression, color and condition. Mint.
Dimensions: chûban (18.7 x 25.3 cm)
Publisher: Shogyokudo
Signature: Zeshin 

Literature: The Brooklyn Museum, MIA, and Smithsonian all have of works from this series in their collections.

SKU: ZES036