Tsukioka YOSHITOSHI (1839-1892)

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A fascinating print showing Kintoki (aka Kintaro and Sakata Kaidomaru) and yama-uba beneath a flowering cherry tree. Strong western elements are obvious in this design indicating a knowledge of (probably) Flemish Madonna and Child paintings or icons, Kintoki standing in for the child Jesus. Yama-uba is depicted as a bare-breasted benign mother figure, rather than the wizened witch which is how she is usually shown, having raised Kintoki on Mount Ashigara. From the set Ikkai zuihitsu, “Essays by Yoshitoshi.” (Ikkai was an early name of Yoshitoshi’s.) A set of thirteen prints published by Masadaya Heikichi 1872/3. A fine set.

Extremely fine impression and colour from the first edition with a brown Kintoki (rather than bright red) and the red seals in the margin and over signature. The white hare’s coat is blind-printed. Margins trimmed a little, otherwise fine condition. Signed Ikkaisai Yoshitoshi hitsu.

Status: Available