Tsuji HOZAN (Fl. 1820-1840)

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An original painting, 31.5 x 12.5 in; 80 x 31.8 cms. Sumi and full colour on silk. The inscription on the inside of the box lid states that the painting is by Tsuji Hozan, a Shijo painter, and shows a “castle-toppling” courtesan under cherry blossom in the style of Toyokuni. (Castle-toppling is a term used for high-ranking courtesans who could, because of their beauty, cause havoc and influence the regimes of men of great power. [See Yoshitoshi’s Women, John Stevenson, Avery Press, 1986, p. 48, no. 10, “Looking feminine” from the set “Thirty-two Aspects.”]) Hozan is known for the fine illustrations to Bitchu meisho-ko (1822) and there is a fine pair of paintings in the BM, acc. no. 1983.1111, 0.3.1-2. However, there is some thought that Hozan was a pseudonyme for Aoi Sokyu (Shuho). Certainly, this pure Ukiyo-e painting shows great competence. Signed Hozan hitsu with seals Hozan and Dojin. In fine condition. Also, on the inside of the lid is a guarantee from Zangetsu’an Studio.

Status: Sold