Ikeda EISEN (1790-1848)
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Two beauties in front of a mirror, Ada ni torikumite, “Grudge Match” from a set Ukiyo shiju hatte, “Forty-eight Habits of the Floating World.” This was a popular title for sets of prints – especially during the next thirty years. The sub-titles are quite obtuse, whereas in later series – for example Kuniyoshi’s set of c 1846 – the meanings are self-evident. A fine double okubi-e set published by Matsumura Tatsuemon, c 1821-22. Eisen was a prolific and repetitive artist but produced some fine landscapes and okubi-e sets. Rare.
Fine impression. Slight fading and minor soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Keisai Eisen ga.
Status: Available
Ikeda EISEN (1790-1848)
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A vertical diptych showing a carp ascending a waterfall. A notoriously difficult design to find without browning and there are many late impressions.
Very good impression with careful gradation. Only minimal toning of paper. Minor creasing otherwise good colour and condition. Signed Keisai hitsu with large Keisai seal.
Status: Sold
Ikeda EISEN (1790-1848)
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Decorative paper from a series Tosei kobutsu hakkei, “Eight Favourite Things in the Modern World.” The set compares beauties with their favourite “things.” In this case paper, shown top left, while other designs from the set compare beauties to dolls, playing cards, the theatre, kimono, etc. Shows a Yoshiwara courtesan holding a bundle of folded tissue. She has sasabeni lips: the lower lip painted with sasa from the bamboo plant, and the upper lip using beni from the safflower. Published by Senichi (Izumiya Ichibei), c 1823.
Fine impression. Slight fading and minor soil, otherwise very good condition. Signed Keisai Eisen ga.
Status: Sold