Santo KYODEN (Kitao MASANOBU) (1761-1816)

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An original painting, full colour on paper, image size 47 x 15.5 in; 119.5 x 39.5 cms. A pupil of Kitao Shigemasa, he was one of the leading authors and illustrators of kibyoshi, ehon and kyoka anthologies. Also produced prints of beauties including the fine set of double-oban prints of courtesans in 1783-4: Yoshiwara keisei shin bijin awase jihitsu kagami. A controversial figure who ran foul of the authorities in 1789; he subsequently ceased using the name Kitao Masanobu and thereafter his paintings are always spontaneous in an abbreviated style, often quite slight and signed Kyoden. The example offered here showing a parading courtesan with her lantern behind her is more finished than most. The calligraphy above by Kyoden. In very good condition with box guaranteed by Tosuke Kimura.

Signed Kyoden gasan, “Painted and inscribed by Kyoden.” Seals Santo Kyoden, Seishu koji and another.

Status: Sold