• NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865) Signed: Toyokuni ga (豊國画) in a red toshidama cartouche Censor seal: Kinugasa (衣笠) & Murata (村田), sealed together from 1/1851 to 1/1852 Publisher: Iseya Sōemon [伊勢屋惣右衛門] (Japanese, 1776 – 1862); seal: hanmoto ue (板元上) Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 229 x 296 mm No date seal. Title (in red cartouche, top right: Mei yoroko [no] awase; 名喜之合 / 名喜合 — possible translations: Facing of famous pleasure, or Gathering of Famous Pleasures, or Assembly of Celebrated Joys.

    A woman is depicted in half-length, facing right, with her mouth modestly covered by her raised right sleeve. She wears a deep purple kimono decorated with spiderwebs and large butterflies—some rendered in fine detail, while others appear worn or damaged, with yellow wings mottled by black spots. A red under-kimono is visible beneath, along with a blue collar featuring a repeating saya-gata (紗綾形) lattice pattern.

    Scrolls tied with blue ribbon are tucked beneath her left arm. Her red obi is adorned with gold cloud motifs and blue floral designs, possibly peonies. Her hair is styled in the taka-shimada fashion and is fastened with a simple white cord (shiro ito), without kanzashi or additional ornamentation. Behind her is a low bamboo fence. The background presents large blooming chrysanthemums (菊, kiku) and what may be roses or peonies, set against a sky that transitions in gradient from blue to purple.

    A companion uchiwa-e print with the same title, catalogued by the Kunisada Project and depicting a kabuki actor, was likely intended to serve as the reverse side of the present print when mounted as a complete fan.

    [With special thanks to Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project]. Provenance: René Scholten (Dutch, 1943 – 2001)
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi (歌川国芳) (1797–1861) Signed: Ichiyūsai Kuniyoshi ga (一勇齋國芳画) with kiri seal Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869); seal san (三) in a circle Censor Seal: aratame (改) Date Seal: tatsu, ni (辰 弍) — 2nd month of the Year of the Dragon, Ansei 3 (2/1856) Block Carver: Yokokawa Takejirō (横川竹二郎) (fl. 1845–1863); seal: 彫竹 (hori Take) Media: Rigid fan print (Aiban Yoko-e Uchiwa-e, 合判横絵 団扇絵), 227 × 286 mm Series: Images of Sansen (三川圖會, Sansen zue), or The Three Rivers Illustrated The print depicts a summer scene along Tatekawa, or Takegawa (竪川), a canal running east-west along the east bank of the Sumida River (隅田川) in Edo (Tokyo). In the background, boats are seen floating on the Sumida River, likely engaged in yūsuzumi (夕涼み, evening cool-off), a popular summer pastime during the Edo period. In the foreground, a woman dressed in a deep blue kimono with red underlayers and a red obi sits inside a riverside establishment. A towel rests on her arms as she reaches for a sliced watermelon. Her hair is styled with decorative hairpins, a comb, and a red ribbon. She is positioned against a bamboo railing that opens onto the river, framing the distant bridge and water traffic. Inscription in the red cartouche to the left of the woman's head: Sansen zue, Tate kawa; 三川圖會 竪川 [reformed writing: 三川図会] [furigana: さんせん づゑ] The print belongs to the series Images of Sansen (三川圖會, Sansen zue), which depicts scenes along three Edo waterways: Fukagawa (深川), Tatekawa (竪川), and Miyatogawa (宮戸川) (see Kuniyoshi Project):
    "This series of uchiwa (non-folding fan prints) is listed in Kuniyoshi by Basil William Robinson (Victoria and Albert Museum, London, 1961) as number 99". On p. 45 it is listed as: Sansen dzuye (Tategawa). The Three Rivers Illustrated. Women's heads. Fan Prints. (3)

    Fukagawa (深川); 1st month of 1856

    Miyatogawa (宮戸川) ; 2nd month of 1856

    [Thanks to Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project]
  • NEW
    Artist: Unknown No censor seal, no date seal. Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869); seal: san (三) in a circle Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 228 x 265 mm. The fan print (uchiwa-e, 団扇絵) depicts the Eitai Bridge (永代橋, Eitai-bashi), one of Edo’s famous landmarks, spanning the Sumida River (隅田川, Sumida-gawa). The wooden arched structure is crowded with pedestrians. Below, the river is bustling with boats, including pleasure barges (yakata-bune, 屋形船) and transport vessels. In the background, Mount Fuji (富士山, Fujisan) rises above the horizon, while the soft gradient of the sky suggests early morning or evening light.
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Kōchōrō Kunisada ga [香朝楼國貞画] in a yellow cartouche Date and Censor Seals: 1832 — Tenpō 3 (辰, Year of the Dragon), plus Approved (kiwame, 極) Publisher: Enshūya Matabei [遠州屋又兵衛] (Japanese, fl. c. 1768 – 1881); seal (ト) under the roof Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 225 x 285 mm. The print depicts a bijin (beautiful woman) holding a paper lantern (chōchin, 提灯) with the kanji 獅子 ("Lion," shishi/jishi) written in bold black strokes. She is shown in a three-quarter view, turning her head to the left, her gaze directed towards the lantern. Her red and blue checkered over-garment adorned with sickle-shaped (鎌, kama) kamon and other ideograms. A red under-kimono is decorated with peonies (botan, 牡丹) and bats (kōmori, 蝙蝠)—symbols of prosperity and good fortune. A black collar with a red accent adds contrast to her attire. Her hair is styled with only a headband, and her teeth are not blackened. The background features a gradient transitioning from green to orange, then to teal, from bottom to top. On the left, swallows (tsubame, 燕) fly upwards, while on the right, blue geese (gan, 雁) descend, creating a balanced movement across the composition.

    Provenance: René Scholten (Dutch, 1943 – 2001)

  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Sadahide [歌川貞秀] or Gountei Sadahide [五雲亭貞秀] (Japanese, 1807 – c. 1879) Signed: Gountei Sadahide ga [五雲亭貞秀画] in a beige 'bark' cartouche Publisher: Tsuruya Kiemon (鶴屋喜右衛門) (enterprise, c. 1620 – 1898); Marks 22-066 | 553m Date: early 1840s – no date seal, no censor seal Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 233 x 304 mm The composition is set against a coastal landscape, featuring a large pine tree and the two maidens carrying brine buckets on shoulder yokes, dressed in layered red and patterned robes. The background includes stylized waves, flying plovers, two sailing vessels, and a pink-hued sky. Matsukaze and Murasame were sisters who lived as brine-gatherers along the shores of Suma Bay. Their story is immortalized in the Noh play Matsukaze (松風):
    The exiled nobleman Ariwara no Yukihira (在原行平) stayed in Suma and fell in love with them. After his departure, the sisters mourned his absence, with Matsukaze in particular losing herself in longing and madness. The pine tree (松, matsu) symbolizes her unfulfilled love, as matsu also means "to wait" in Japanese.
    Suma Bay (須磨浦, Suma-ura) is a coastal area in Kobe, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan, located along the Seto Inland Sea (瀬戸内海, Seto Naikai). It is historically significant and a prominent setting in classical Japanese literature, particularly in The Tale of Genji and The Tale of the Heike.
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi [歌川 國芳] (Japanese, 1798 – 1861) Signature: Kuniyoshi ga [国芳画] with a paulownia seal. Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, c. 1815 – 1869). Date seal: (寅西) Year of the Tiger plus (改) Aratame — 4th month, Kaei 7 = 4/1854 Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 229 x 289 mm Description by Kunisada Project: Two Ise Ondo dancers in identical costumes on a terrace with folding fans. The print depicts two Ise Ondo dancers performing on a terrace, wearing matching costumes and holding folding fans (sensu, 扇子). Their layered kimonos are grey, red, and black, featuring a wave motif (seigaiha, 青海波) on the black fabric and large, bold kanji characters on the grey fabric—静 (shizu, "calm, quiet") and 連 (ren, "group, association, troupe"). Their obi (sashes) are red, secured with a yellow obi-jime (cord). They dance with open folding fans decorated with yellow clouds and Genji-mon (源氏紋). Their distinctive costume elements and synchronized movement identify them as Ise Ondo performers, a dance tradition rooted in festival celebrations and kabuki adaptations. The kanji 静 (shizu) references Shizuka Gozen (静御前), a legendary shirabyōshi dancer linked to the Minamoto clan, further reinforcing the connection to classical dance heritage. The dancers’ detailed hair ornaments (kanzashi, 簪) and layered clothing emphasize their elegance and status as skilled performers. The background transitions from green at the bottom to deep blue at the top, with three large paper lanterns hanging above, enhancing the festive setting.
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865) Signed: Toyokuni ga (豊國画) in a red toshidama cartouche Censor seal: Fuku (福) & Muramatsu (村松), sealed together from 3/1849 to 11/1851 Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869), san (三)  in a circle, in a 'boar eye' shape Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 222 x 285 mm Series: Benkei-chequered fabrics woven to order (Atsuraeori Benkei Konomi, 誂織弁慶好) or Fabric woven in Benkei taste (atsurae ori benkei gonomi, 誂織弁慶好) A bijin (美人, beautiful woman) is depicted in a refined setting, holding an unadorned uchiwa (団扇, flat fan) in her left hand while delicately raising a writing brush (筆, fude) in her right, "poised as if she is about to write something, perhaps on the fan" (LIB-1212.2017. Robert Schaap, Kunisada: Imaging Drama and Beauty). Her attire is elaborate, featuring a kimono (着物) with bold purple curves complemented by an underlayer with red geometric motifs. The background is dominated by a chequered fabric pattern, referencing the Benkei-checkered cloth (弁慶縞, Benkei-jima), traditionally associated with the twelfth-century warrior monk Musashibō Benkei (武蔵坊弁慶). This pattern holds historical and cultural significance, often symbolizing strength and resilience. The woman's elaborate hairstyle (日本髪, nihongami) is adorned with large decorative hairpins (簪, kanzashi), further emphasizing her status and elegance. The print belongs to a series that incorporates this distinctive checkered motif, connecting it to the visual traditions established by Kunisada (国貞) and his contemporary Utagawa Kuniyoshi (歌川国芳), who also produced a series of beauties wearing Benkei-checkered kimono, such as Women in Benkei-Checkered Cloth (島揃女弁慶, Shimazōroi onna Benkei, c. 1844).

    Another fan print from the same series by Kunisada: {あつらへおり・弁慶好) Atsurae ori - Benkei gonomi

    Reference: Robert Schaap. Kunisada: Imaging Drama and Beauty / Introduction by Sebastian Izzard, contributions by Paul Griffith and Henk. J. Herwig. — Leiden: Hotei Publishing, ©2016, p. 68, pl. 42. [With special thanks to Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project].
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865) Signature: Toyokuni ga (豊國画) in a red toshidama cartouche Artist: Utagawa Hiroshige [歌川 広重] a.k.a. Andō Hiroshige [安藤 広重] (Japanese, 1797 – 1858). Signature: Hiroshige ga (廣重画) in a red rectangular cartouche Date and Censor Seal: 1858 — Ansei 5 (午, Year of the Horse) plus Approved (kiwame, 極) Publisher: Iseya Sōemon [伊勢屋惣右衛門] (Japanese, 1776 – 1862); seal: hanmoto Ue (板元上) Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 232 x 298 mm Title: Muronotsu in Harima Province (Harima Muronotsu, 播磨室ノ津) Series: A Set of Ports in the Provinces (Shokoku minato tsukushi, 諸国湊尽) A half-length portrait of a woman in a three-quarter view facing right, seated in a boat, gazing toward the Muronotsu harbour. She extends her right hand as if pointing toward the merchant ships anchored near the shore. Her black hair is arranged in an elaborate updo, adorned with gilt hairpins (簪 kanzashi) and a decorative comb. She wears a multi-layered kimono featuring a purple outer robe with delicate butterfly and floral embroidery, a blue-patterned collar, and a red underlayer with a geometric motif. The background landscape, designed by Hiroshige, depicts Muronotsu in Harima Province, an important Edo-period port along the Inland Sea. Several merchant ships with masts loaded with goods are docked near the tree-covered coastline while a smaller sailing vessel moves across the bay. The sky transitions into a soft pink and purple gradient, suggesting sunrise or sunset.
    In Kunisada: Imaging, Drama and Beauty by Robert Schaap [LIB-1212.2017], we see the following description: In this composition, Kunisada was responsible for the female figure seated in a boat and Utagawa Hiroshige for the background landscape. The setting is Muronotsu in Harima province, which was known at the time as an important harbour catering to traffic along the Inland Sea to Kyoto. It also had the reputation for its female entertainers and prostitutes. They feature in the no play Courtesans of Muro (Murogimi) in which the deity at Muro performs a dance, lured in by the singing of these women.
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865) Signed: Toyokuni ga (豊國画) in a yellow toshidama cartouche Censor seal: Fuku (福) & Muramatsu (村松) Date seal: 1853 — Kaei 6 (丑, Year of the Ox), 2nd month Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869), san (三)  in a circle Block carver: Yokokawa Takejirō [横川竹二郎] (Japanese, fl. 1845 – 1863); Seal: hori Take (彫竹) Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 214 x 295 mm A half-length portrait of a woman in a three-quarter view facing left. She holds an almost full sake cup—with three blue toshidamas—in her left hand and a shamisen plectrum (bachi, 撥) in her right. Resting on her lap, partially visible in the lower part of the print, is a shamisen (三味線). Her black hair is styled in an elaborate updo, adorned with gilt hairpins (簪, kanzashi), a comb, and a blue ribbon. She wears a blue outer kimono featuring a chrysanthemum diaper pattern (青海波, seigaiha) with black shippō (七宝) roundels, a red under-kimono, and a blue latticed collar. The obi (帯) is purple, decorated with green-and-blue dragons and waves over a sayagata (紗綾形) lattice pattern. The background features a hemp-leaf geometric pattern (麻の葉, asanoha) transitioning from black to crimson in a gradient, with a mist-like effect at face level. A round red cartouche in the upper right contains the title "The six days [of the week], the 5th day" (Roku hisei — butsumetsu, 六陽盛 物(ぶつ)愛(めつ)). The artist’s signature (豊國画, Toyokuni ga) appears in a yellow toshidama cartouche in the lower left, accompanied by the publisher’s and censor seals, as well as the block carver’s seal (彫竹, hori Take). There has been extensive discussion regarding the meaning of the title in the red round cartouche, which reads 六曜盛物愛. Breaking Down the Inscription: The first two characters, 六曜 (Rokuyō), refer to the six-day Buddhist calendar cycle, which determines lucky and unlucky days. This system became widely used in the late Edo and Meiji periods. The six days are:
    • 先勝 (Senshō) – Lucky in the morning
    • 友引 (Tomobiki) – "Pulling a friend" (good for social matters)
    • 先負 (Sakimake) – Lucky in the afternoon
    • 仏滅 (Butsumetsu) – The most unlucky day
    • 大安 (Taian) – The most lucky day
    • 赤口 (Shakkō) – Bad luck
    Upon reviewing the available information and expert analyses, it appears that the inscription 六曜盛物愛 contains an unconventional representation of 仏滅 (Butsumetsu), traditionally written as 仏滅. Deciphering the Inscription: 六曜 (Rokuyō): Refers to the six-day Buddhist calendar cycle, indicating auspicious and inauspicious days. 盛 (Sakari): Translates to prosperity, peak, or prominence, possibly suggesting a focus on the significance of these days. Together, 六曜盛 (Rokuyō Sakari)—the series title—can be interpreted as "The Six Days in Their Peak" or "The Prosperity of the Six Days" (where "盛" carries the meaning of "prosperous, prominent, or significant"). The two kanji to the left of the series title (物愛) seem to represent 仏滅 (Butsumetsu, the most unlucky day). However, 仏滅 is the standard notation, making the use of 物愛 highly unusual. Comparison with Other Known Prints in the Series: There are two other prints in this series, documented by The Kunisada Project, which feature correctly written names of other Rokuyō days: Taian (大安) – The most lucky day Senshō (先勝) – Lucky in the morning Since both Taian and Senshō are written correctly, it is logical to assume that 物愛 (Butsumetsu) was intended to represent 仏滅 (Butsumetsu, "Buddha’s Death," the most unlucky day). Possible Reasons for the Unconventional Notation: The use of 物愛 instead of 仏滅 remains unexplained, but possibilities include: — A woodblock cutter’s error, possibly confusing the characters 仏滅 with similar-looking ones. — An artistic variation, though this would be unusual since Butsumetsu is almost always written as 仏滅. — A play on words, but no documented precedent has been found for writing Butsumetsu as 物愛. Conclusion: The most accurate title for this print should follow the established pattern in the series and could be phrased as: "Butsumetsu: The Most Unlucky Day, from the series Rokuyō Sakari" or "Rokuyō Sakari: Butsumetsu, The Most Unlucky Day". [With special thanks to Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project]
    Taian (大安) – The most lucky day Senshō (先勝) – Lucky in the morning
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865) Signed: Kōchō Toyokuni ga (香蝶豊國画) in a red toshidama cartouche Censor seal: Kinugasa (衣笠) & Yoshimura (吉村) Date: 1849 (Kaei 2) – according to Marks, the only year Kinigasa and Yoshimura sealed jointly Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869), san (三)  in a circle, in a 'boar eye' shape. Block carver: Matsushima Fusajirō [松島房次郎], seal: hori kō Fusajirō (彫工房次郎) Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 228 x 293 mm. A half-length portrait of a woman in a three-quarter view facing left. She delicately holds a blue-blossomed flower, possibly sumire (菫, violet), in her right hand, using its stem to fish clams from a pot of water. In her left hand, she holds a small, dark object—likely a freshly retrieved clam. Rather than referencing textile dyeing, this action appears to illustrate a playful or symbolic act, possibly related to traditional customs or metaphors in Japanese culture. Her black hair is styled in an elaborate updo, adorned with gilt hairpins (簪, kanzashi) and a brown ribbon with a tie-dye pattern (絞り, shibori). She wears a multi-layered kimono featuring a blue floral-patterned outer robe (花模様, hanamoyō) with a red and white kawari-eri (変り衿) and a blue and black inner collar. The obi (帯) is purple and black, with subtle decorative elements. The background is divided into three decorative panels: — Left: Orange with a swastika-based geometric pattern (紗綾形, sayagata). — Middle: Deep purple. — Right: Dark grey with a yellow interlocking circles pattern (七宝, shippō). The title, in a red cartouche with gilt framing in the upper right, reads “New Types of Dyeing” (Shingata Atsurae Zome, 新形誂染). While the title suggests a reference to textile techniques, the imagery instead depicts a whimsical or metaphorical scene of clam-fishing using a flower stem. The artist’s signature appears in the lower right within a toshidama cartouche (年玉枠), with the publisher’s seal below and the censor seals above. The block carver’s yellow seal is placed near the flowers in the lower left.

    Provenance: Ruth Sylvia Nelkin (American,1927 – 2022); Christie's NY: Nov 24, 1997, lot 98;  Heritage Auctions Jun. 27, 2024 (Ruth Nelkin Collection)

  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: ōju Kōchōrō Kunisada ga (應需香蝶楼國貞画)

    Date: no date seal, no censor seal.

    Publisher: Jōshūya Jūzō [上州屋重蔵] (Japanese, 1812 – 1876); seal jū (重)  under roof; Marks 01-065 | 191a; Seal name: Jōjū (上重)

    Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 227 x 297 mm.

    A half-length portrait of a woman in a three-quarter view facing right. She holds a glass vessel with water and a goldfish in her left hand, while her right hand delicately grasps a small black folding fan with a red circle, possibly symbolizing the sun (日, hi). Her black hair is arranged in an elaborate updo, adorned with a red fabric bow and hairpins. She wears a layered kimono of blue gradient fabric with floral motifs, a red under-kimono (襦袢, juban) with white plum blossoms (梅, ume) on the collar and a hemp leaf motif (麻の葉, asanoha) on the sleeves, and a black obi with red lining, decorated with peonies (牡丹, botan). To the left, wisteria flowers (藤, fuji) and umbrellas (傘, kasa) hang above a ritual display stand (祭壇, saitan), which holds a miniature portable shrine (神輿, mikoshi) and a tengu Noh mask (天狗能面, tengu nōmen). The artist's signature is in the lower right, and the publisher's seal appears in the lower left quadrant. The title in the upper right corner reads: "Flower-Comparing Contest, Artificial Flower Making at the Festival" (Hanakura Sairei no Zōka - 花競 祭礼乃造花).
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Kōchōrō Kunisada ga [香朝楼國貞画]

    Date: 1832 — Tenpō 3 (辰, Year of the Dragon), plus Approved (kiwame, 極).

    Publisher: Ebiya Rinnosuke [海老屋林之助] (Japanese, c. 1832–1895), seal 'to' (ト) Marks: 07-021 | 040a; a.k.a. Ueki Rinnosuke [植木林之助], seal name: 海老林 (Ebirin)

    Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 222 x 285 mm.

    A half-length portrait of a woman in a three-quarter view facing slightly left. She is pruning a flowering plum branch (梅, ume) for an ikebana (生け花) arrangement, holding a branch in her left hand and scissors in her right. Her black hair is styled in an elaborate updo with a gilt hairpin (簪, kanzashi) and a red ribbon. She wears a multi-layered kimono: a striped outer garment with white igeta kamon (井桁, well crib pattern), a black kawari-eri (変り衿) collar decorated with flying birds and stylized golden waves, and a red and green under-kimono with a blue-and-white patterned collar. The background features a wooden house with blue-tiled roofs overlooking a landscape with a winding stream, pines, and distant hills. The artist's signature, censor seal, date seal, and publisher's seal are placed in the lower left.
    The seller, however, citing Ukiyoe Bijin to Tokaidō. Japan Ukiyo-e Association, 1987) no. 68, states that: The woman wearing a blue kosode, a black hood, and walking in the snow can be identified as Osono from the drama Chūshingura, a popular play recounting the story of the Forty-Seven Rōnin. Osono is the wife of the rōnin's arms supplier, who reluctantly expelled her from their home for fear that she might be drawn into the conspiracy. [La femme portant un kosode bleu, une capuche noire et marchant dans la neige est identifiable à Osono du drame Chushingura, pièce populaire reprenant l'histoire des quarante-sept ronin, Osono est l'épouse du fournisseur d'armes des ronin, qui l'a chassée à contrecœur de chez lui de crainte qu'elle ne soit entraînée dans le complot.]

    Provenance: René Scholten (Dutch, 1943 – 2001)

  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Kōchōrō Kunisada ga [香朝楼國貞画] in a red roundel with winged insects. Date: 1834 — Tenpō 5 (午, Year of the Horse),  plus Approved (kiwame, 極) Publisher: Iseya Ichiemon [伊勢屋市右衛門] (Japanese, fl. c. 1820s – 1860s), seal tsuji (辻) Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 225 x 280 mm. The Wikipedia article on Kyokusui no Utage states: "A winding stream party (Chinese: 流觴曲水/曲水流觴; pinyin: liúshāngqūshuǐ) is an old Chinese custom in which the participants wait by a winding stream and compose poems before their cups full of rice wine float down to reach them. [...] It was also adopted by the Japanese and was called Kyokusui-no-en." According to Horst Graebner: However, the Japanese article provides different transliterations:きょくすいのうたげ(えん) kyokusui no utage (en) or ごくすいのうたげ(えん) gokusui no utage (en). This indicates that both kyokusui and gokusui may be acceptable readings for the term 曲水 (winding water), though kyokusui appears to be the more commonly used form.

    A half-length portrait of a woman in a three-quarter view facing left. She holds a paper scroll with the saaya pattern along the edges in both hands. Her black hair is styled in an elaborate updo with a gilt hairpin and a comb. She wears a multi-layered kimono featuring blue clematis (鉄線, tessen) on a brown outer garment and white plum blossoms on a red collar. The green and brown checkered obi has gilt flowers and tendrils brocade. The background is deep blue with two red circular cartouches—the left containing a peony, the right featuring winged insects alongside the artist's signature. A third cartouche, shaped like a red lacquer sake cup, bears gold lettering reading Bijin kyokusui no utage (en) [美人曲水宴].

    Provenance: René Scholten (Dutch, 1943 – 2001)

  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞] a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代歌川豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signature: Kunisada ga [国貞画] in a red double-gourd cartouche. Publisher:  Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869); seal: san (三) in a circle to verso. Date seal: Year of the Snake (巳, mi), Tenpō 4 , 1833, to verso. Censor seal: kiwame (極, approved), to verso. Media: Double-side fan print (uchiwa-e); 225 x 283 mm. Series: Tosei rok’kasen or Tosei rokkasen [當世六花撰]  – two translations: (1) by Sebastian Izzard: Six choice modern flowers, (2) by Horst Graebner: Modern Six [Immortal] Poets. Character: Sawamura Tosshō I [沢村訥升] (Japanese, 1802 – 1853); other names: Sawamura Gennosuke II, Suketakaya Takasuke III, Sawamura Chōjūrō V, Sawamura Sōjūrō V, Sawamura Genpei I, Sawamura Tosshi V; Poetry names: Kōga, Tosshi V, Tosshō; Guild: Kinokuniya. Poet: Ariwara Narihira [在原業平] (Japanese, 825 – 9 July 880) – one of Six Immortal Poets (六歌仙rokkasen) A double-sheet uncut fan print featuring a half-length, three-quarter view, turned to the right portrait of Kabuki actor Sawamura Tosshō I. He holds a bow (yumi, 弓) and an arrow (ya, 矢) in his left hand, while his right hand grasps the collar of his under-kimono, with his thumb tucked inside. He wears a blue outer kimono patterned with a woven lattice motif, lined with red and yellow on the sleeves. Beneath it, his red under-kimono with a black collar is visible. A white towel (tenugui, 手拭い) is draped around his neck and shoulder. A red scroll with an inscription hangs behind him, reading: Ariwara Narihira (在原業平); Sawamura Tosshō I (沢村訥升). His name is written with kanji, hentaigana, and hiragana: Kinokuniya Tosshō (きの國やとし志ょう)—his guild and poetry names. The series title Tōsei Rokkasen (当世六歌撰) appears in the red cartouche to the left, and the artist’s signature is in the double-gourd red cartouche to the right. The background features a blue and yellow gradient decorated with floral roundels. The reverse side features a decorative design with floral roundels in blue and green. A paper slip (tanzaku, 短冊) with a red cloud-like gradient at the edges is positioned diagonally across the composition. It contains a calligraphic inscription in cursive script. Three standard seals—publisher, approval, and date—are in the bottom right quadrant of the print. Ref: (1) [LIB-2967.2022] Utagawa Kunisada (1786 – 1865): His world revisited / Catalogue № 17, Exhibition March 17-21, 2021. — NY: Sebastian Izzard, LLC., 2021; p. 130-1. (2) [LIB-1212.2017] Robert Schaap. Kunisada: Imaging, drama and beauty. — Leiden: Hotei Publishing, 2016, p. 58. [With tremendous help from Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project].
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞] a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代歌川豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signature: Kunisada ga [国貞画] in a red double-gourd cartouche. Publisher:  Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869); seal: san (三) in a circle to verso. Date seal: Year of the Snake (巳, mi), Tenpō 4 , 1833, to verso. Censor seal: kiwame (極, approved), to verso. Media: Double-side fan print (uchiwa-e); 225 x 292 mm. Series: Tosei rok’kasen or Tosei rokkasen [當世六花撰]  – two translations: (1) by Sebastian Izzard: Six choice modern flowers, (2) by Horst Graebner: Modern Six [Immortal] Poets. Character: Ichikawa Danzō V [市川団蔵] (Japanese, 1788 – 1845); Ichikawa Shikō I, Ichikawa Danzaburō IV, Ichikawa Danjirō I, Ichikawa Morinosuke I. Poet: Fun'ya/Bunya Yasuhide [文屋康秀] (Japanese, ? – c.885) – one of Six Immortal Poets (六歌仙rokkasen)

    A double-sheet uncut fan print with a half-length, three-quarter view, turned to the right, portrait of kabuki actor Ichikawa Danzō V holding a sensu (扇子, folding fan) with a yellow and red design in his right hand, gripping it close to his chest. He wears a blue kimono with circular floral motifs and a white undergarment with a purple geometric pattern; a white hexagonal crest with three stripes is visible on his sleeve. A red scroll with an inscription is hanging behind him. The inscription on a red background reads: Fun'ya (or Bunya) Yasuhide (文屋康秀). Ichikawa Danzō V (市川団蔵) is written with hentaigana and hiragana as Mikawaya Shikō (みかわやしこう), the guild and poetry names of Danzō. The series title Tōsei Rokkasen (当世六歌撰) appears in the red cartouche to the left, and the artist's signature is in the double-gourd red cartouche to the right. The background features a green and purple gradient decorated with floral roundels.

    The reverse side features a decorative design with floral roundels in blue and green. A paper slip (tanzaku, 短冊) with a red cloud-like gradient at the edges is positioned diagonally across the composition. The slip contains a calligraphic inscription in cursive script. Three standard seals, publisher, approval, and date, are in the bottom right quadrant of the print.

    Ref: (1) [LIB-2967.2022] Utagawa Kunisada (1786 – 1865): His world revisited / Catalogue № 17, Exhibition March 17-21, 2021. — NY: Sebastian Izzard, LLC., 2021; p. 130-1. (2) [LIB-1212.2017] Robert Schaap. Kunisada: Imaging, drama and beauty. — Leiden: Hotei Publishing, 2016, p. 58. [With tremendous help from Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project].
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞] a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代歌川豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signature: Kunisada ga [国貞画] in a red double-gourd cartouche. Publisher:  Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869); seal: san (三) in a circle to verso. Date seal: Year of the Snake (巳, mi), Tenpō 4 , 1833, to verso. Censor seal: kiwame (極, approved), to verso. Media: Double-side fan print (uchiwa-e); 226 x 291 mm. Series: Tosei rok’kasen or Tosei rokkasen [當世六花撰]  – two translations: (1) by Sebastian Izzard: Six choice modern flowers, (2) by Horst Graebner: Modern Six [Immortal] Poets. Character: Nakamura Shikan II [中村芝翫] (Japanese, 1796 – 1852); other names: Nakamura Utaemon IV [中村歌右衛門], Nakamura Tsurusuke I, Nakamura Tōtarō, Nakamura Kanjaku I, Fujima Kamesaburô (dance), Hirano Kichitarō; nicknames: Narikomaya Utaemon, Shijaku Utaemon; Poetry names: Kanjaku, Shishô [芝賞]. Poet: Kisen Hōshi [喜撰法師] (Japanese, fl. 810-824 CE)  – one of Six Immortal Poets (六歌仙rokkasen) A double-sheet uncut fan print featuring a half-length, three-quarter view, turned to the left portrait of Kabuki actor Nakamura Shikan II (中村芝翫 二代目) engaged in a tea ceremony (chanoyu, 茶の湯). He holds a chashaku (茶杓, tea scoop) in his right hand and a natsume (棗, tea caddy) in his left. The natsume is red lacquer, adorned with gilt karakusa (唐草, arabesque) and a meander motif. He wears a black robe with blue-patterned details, and a white mokkō-mon (木瓜紋, family crest) is visible on his sleeve. A red scroll with an inscription hangs behind him; the inscription reads: Kisen Hōshi (喜撰法師). The name of Nakamura Shikan II (中村芝翫) is written in hentaigana and hiragana as Narikomaya Shikan (なりこまやしかん), reflecting his guild name. The series title Tōsei Rokkasen (当世六歌撰) appears in the red cartouche to the left, and the artist’s signature is in the double-gourd red cartouche to the right. The background features a green and purple gradient decorated with floral roundels. The reverse side features a decorative design with floral roundels in blue and green. A paper slip (tanzaku, 短冊) with a red cloud-like gradient at the edges is positioned diagonally across the composition. It contains a calligraphic inscription in cursive script. Three standard seals—publisher, approval, and date—are in the bottom right quadrant of the print.  

    Mokko-mon of Narikomaya guild

    Ref: (1) [LIB-2967.2022] Utagawa Kunisada (1786 – 1865): His world revisited / Catalogue № 17, Exhibition March 17-21, 2021. — NY: Sebastian Izzard, LLC., 2021; p. 130-1. (2) [LIB-1212.2017] Robert Schaap. Kunisada: Imaging, drama and beauty. — Leiden: Hotei Publishing, 2016, p. 58. [With tremendous help from Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project].
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Gototei Kunisada ga (五渡亭國貞画) Date and Censor Seal: 1830 / Aratame seal (改) plus (tora, 寅) = Year of the Tiger, Bunsei 13 (文政十三年) Publisher:  Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c. 1815 – 1869); seal: san (三) in a circle. Additional publisher red stamp in the form of a double gourd. Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 228 x 266 mm.

    Actor: Bandō Minosuke II [坂東蓑助] (Japanese, 1802 – 1863); other names: Morita Kan'ya XI, Bandô Mitsugorō IV.

    Role: Momonoi Wakasanosuke (桃の井わかさ之助)

    Play: Kanadehon Chūshingura, performed at Ichimura-za in the 4th lunar month  of 1830

    This uchiwa-e (団扇絵, fan print) by Utagawa Kunisada (歌川国貞), also known as Toyokuni III (三代歌川豊国), depicts the actor Bandō Minosuke II (坂東蓑助) in the role of Momonoi Wakasanosuke (桃の井若狭之助) from Kanadehon Chūshingura (仮名手本忠臣蔵), performed at Ichimura-za in the fourth lunar month of 1830 (Bunsei 13, Year of the Tiger, 文政十三年寅). The actor is shown in a half-length portrait, three-quarter view, facing right, with his hand lifting the hilt of his sword (刀, katana), signalling a moment of restrained fury. His narrowed eyes and pursed lips suggest inner turmoil, reflecting Wakasanosuke’s frustration with Kō no Moronao in Act 1 of the play. He wears a black kimono richly decorated with chrysanthemums (菊, kiku) over a lattice motif. On his sleeve, a heraldic crest (家紋, kamon) features a standing mulberry leaf (梶の葉, kaji no ha) enclosed in an octagon, the emblem of Tsuruoka Hachiman Shrine in Kamakura, where his historical counterpart, Wakisaka Yasumasa, had his residence. Beneath the black outer garment, he wears a red under-kimono with floral designs and a blue collar. In his right hand, he grips the hilt of his sword, adorned with gold menuki. A red cartouche framed with golden mulberry leaves in the upper left contains the inscription — right: Momonoi Wakasanosuke (桃の井わかさ之助), left: Bandō Minosuke (坂東蓑助).
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni II [歌川豊国二代] a.k.a. Toyoshige [豊重] (Japanese, (1777 – 1835) Signed: Toyokuni ga (豊國画) Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. c.1815–1869); seal: san (三) in circle. Additional publisher red stamp in the form of a double gourd. Date and Censor Seal: 1830 / Aratame seal (改) plus (tora, 寅) = Year of the Tiger, Bunsei 13 (文政十三年) Media: Uchiwa-e (fan print), color woodblock print, 227 x 267 mm Actor: Iwai Kumesaburō II [岩井粂三郎] (Japanese, 1799 – 1836); other names: Iwai Hanshirō VI, Iwai Hisajirō I, Baiga (poetry name), Shūka (poetry name). Role: Osono (おその), wife of Amakawaya Gihei (天川屋義平) Play: Kanadehon Chūshingura, performed at Ichimura-za in the 4th lunar month  of 1830

    This uchiwa-e (団扇絵) depicts Iwai Kumesaburō II (岩井粂三郎) as Nyōbō Osono (女房おその), the wife of Amakawaya Gihei (天川屋義平), in Act 10 of Kanadehon Chūshingura (仮名手本忠臣蔵). Osono is shown in a half-length portrait, three-quarter view, turned to her left. Behind her, an arrow (矢, ya) has pierced a target (的, mato) in the bullseye. In her hand, she holds a severed lock of her own hair. She wears a green-spotted kimono patterned with white plum blossoms (梅, ume), with a red under-kimono featuring a blue lattice-decorated collar (襟, eri). Her hair is adorned with a gilt comb (櫛, kushi) and hairpins (簪, kanzashi).

    In Act 10, Gihei (義平), recognizing that the rōnin’s attack on Moronao is imminent, sends Osono (おその) back to her parents, an act equivalent to divorcing her. Since a divorced woman would typically be remarried by her family, Ōboshi Yuranosuke (大星由良之助) orders Ōwashi Bungo (大鷲文吾) to cut her hair, ensuring that this does not happen, leaving her unmarriageable and still tied to her husband during their separation. "Once we finish our business of killing the enemy, you can celebrate your reunion," said Ōboshi Yuranosuke.

    A red slip of paper (短冊, tanzaku) with the actor’s name and role is placed near the upper right.

  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Kunisada ga (國貞画) in a double tosidama cartouche Date: Year of the Rat (子, Ne); Bunsei 11, 文政十一年), 1828. Censor seal: kiwame (極) Publisher: Ibaya Kyūbei [伊場屋久兵衛] (enterprise, op. c.1804-69); Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 222 x 293 mm.

    Actor (not stated): Onoe Kikugorō III [尾上菊五郎] (Japanese, 1784 – 1849); other names: Ōkawa Hashizō I, Onoe Baikō III, Onoe Matsusuke II, Onoe Eizaburō I

    Role (not stated): Nuregami Chōgorō (濡髪長五郎), a sumo wrestler.

    A half-length portrait of Onoe Kikugorō III (三代目尾上菊五郎), shown in a three-quarter view, turned slightly to the left. He wears an elaborate kimono with a geometric pattern adorned with round pine crests (matsu mon, 松紋). His under-kimono, visible at the sleeves and neckline, features red and black tones, strikingly contrasting. A white towel draped over his shoulder signifies his role as a sumo wrestler.

    The background consists of a checkerboard pattern in two shades of purple, filled with alternating butterflies (chō, 蝶), plovers (chidori, 千鳥), and melon flowers (mokko, 木瓜).

    In 1828, there is only one documented performance in which Onoe Kikugorō III played a male role:

    The role of Nuregami Chōgorō was played by the Third-Generation Onoe Kikugorō (濡髪の長五郎が 三代目尾上菊五郎,  Nuregami no Chōgorō ga Sandai-me Onoe Kikugorō.

    The play is mentioned as Chōchō no itohan (also Chōchō futago no kyōdai) (蝶々☆梅菊) by Kunisda Project. However, the paper accompaneying my print it is called  二番目「蝶蝶亀菊のちょうようふたまたさいかく」, Nibanme "Chōchōkyō Kiku no Chōyō Futamata Saikaku" (The second feature: "Butterflies, Turtles, and Chrysanthemums: A Tale of Dual Wisdom". It was performed at Kawarazaki-za in the 1st lunar month of Bunsei 11 (1828).

    Nuregami no Chōgorō was a composed sumo wrestler, in contrast to his counterpart Washi no Chōkichi (鷲の長吉), or Hanaregoma Chōkichi (放駒長吉), who was more hot-tempered. The play revolves around themes of duty, loyalty, and conflict between sumo wrestlers in the pleasure quarters (kuruwa, 廓). In one of the key moments of the drama, Chōgorō takes responsibility for a crime he did not commit, accepting blame out of a sense of duty. His role embodies bushidō-like loyalty and self-sacrifice, making him a compelling character in kabuki performance.

  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: ōju Kunisada ga (應需國貞画) – "Drawn by Kunisada on commission" Date: No date Censor seal: kiwame (極) Publisher: Nishimuraya Yohachi [西村屋与八] (enterprise, op. c. 1751 – 1860); Marks: 01-008 | 391a Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 225 x 292 mm.

    Kabuki Actor: Onoe Kikugorō III [尾上菊五郎] (Japanese, 1784 – 1849); other names: Ōkawa Hashizō I, Onoe Baikō III, Onoe Matsusuke II, Onoe Eizaburō I

    Role: Nagoya Sanza (名古屋山三)

    A half-length portrait of Onoe Kikugorō III (尾上菊五郎) in the role of Nagoya Sanza (名古屋山三), depicted in a three-quarter view, turned slightly to the right. His chonmage (丁髷) hairstyle, with a neatly tied topknot and wrapped hair cords, reflects his status as a samurai.

    He wears a purple kimono decorated with swallows (燕, tsubame), bamboo umbrellas (唐傘, karakasa), and streaks of rain—a dynamic and symbolic pattern. Swallows are often associated with change, travel, and perseverance; the umbrellas and rain may evoke a sense of wandering and hardship, themes relevant to the character of Nagoya Sanza, a disgraced samurai seeking revenge. The inner collar features green and gold-striped layers, contrasting the outer robe.

    The background is a muted yellow-green monochrome, highlighting the rich details of the actor’s costume and facial expression. To the left of the figure, the inscriptions identify the character’s name (名古屋山三, Nagoya Sanza) and the actor (尾上菊五郎, Onoe Kikugorō III). The artist’s signature, 應需國貞画 (Ōju Kunisada ga), appears in the lower left, indicating that the print was created on commission.

    This uchiwa-e likely dates to the late Bunsei era (c. 1820s–1830s). Onoe Kikugorō III played this role in 1823, 1827, 1831, and 1836, with the closest match in kimono design traced to 1827. That year, the play Ōichiza Soga no shimadai (群曽我島台) was staged at Kawarazaki-za in the 1st lunar month, suggesting this print may be associated with that performance.
    MFA Accession Number 11.43447a-c Waseda 100-9683

    Nagoya Sanza (名古屋山三) is a legendary samurai and a central figure in the classic kabuki and bunraku play Meiboku Sendai Hagi (伽羅先代萩). His story is rooted in historical events from the Date clan of Sendai, although it has been highly dramatized in Edo-period theatre.

    Sanza is a loyal retainer falsely accused of stealing a valuable sword and subsequently banished. Stripped of his honour, he takes on the appearance of a wandering samurai dressed in a distinct kimono with a cloud and dragonfly pattern. Meanwhile, his rival, Fuwa Banzaemon (不破伴左衛門), flaunts the stolen sword and openly taunts him. Their encounters, particularly the famous rainy night duel scene, are among kabuki's most visually striking moments. Sanza’s story is of perseverance and revenge, as he ultimately seeks to restore his name and expose the true culprit behind the theft.

    [Thanks to Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project]
  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Gototei Kunisada ga (五渡亭國貞画) Date seal: Year of the Boar (亥), Bunsei 10, 1827. Censor seal: kiwame (極) Publisher: Unknown; seal ト本 (to, hon); not in Marks. Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 225 x 292 mm.

    Kabuki Actor: Segawa Rokō (瀬川路考), a.k.a. Segawa Kikunojō V [瀬川菊之丞] (Japanese, 1802 – 1832); other names: Segawa Tamon I.

    A half-length portrait of the actor Segawa Rokō (瀬川路考) in a three-quarter view, turned slightly to the left. He is depicted in a female role (onnagata), dressed in a vibrant green kimono with a subtle wave-like pattern and scattered floral motifs. The red under-kimono features a white design of waves and a waterwheel (suisha, 水車). A blue towel draped over his shoulder is adorned with white chrysanthemums and pine needles, possibly alluding to The Seven Grasses of Winter (Fuyugusa Nana-kusa, 冬草七草). His hair is styled with a decorative ribbon and a gilt kanzashi hairpin.

    The background consists of bold diagonal stripes in alternating shades of black, blue, and lavender, strikingly contrasting the figure. A red and gold toshidama cartouche in the upper right contains the actor’s name, 瀬川路考.

    [Thanks to Horst Graebner of Kunisada Project]

  • NEW
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Kōchōrō Kunisada ga [香朝楼國貞画] in a red double-gourd cartouche. Date: No censor/date seal. Publisher: No seal. Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 217 x 283 mm. Series: The taste of the new type of woman (Shingata bijin konomi) [新形美人好].

    A half-length portrait of a young woman in three-quarter view, turned slightly to the right. She is elegantly dressed in a blue kimono adorned with floral motifs, worn over a red under-kimono with a blue collar featuring a lattice pattern. Her elaborately styled hair is adorned with kanzashi hairpins and a comb, indicative of her status, possibly as a courtesan or geisha. The background is filled with intricate textile patterns, including a central pink scroll embellished with golden embroidery of waves and plovers. She holds a rolled scroll featuring a snowflake-like pattern, possibly a stencil used for dyeing fabrics. The blue cartouche on the right reads: 新形美人好 (Shingata bijin konomi) – the series title.

  • NEW

    Artist: Keisai Eisen [渓斎 英泉] (Japanese, 1790 – 1848)

    Signed: Keisai Eisen ga (渓齋英泉画)

    Publisher: Masudaya Ginjirō [増田屋銀次郎] (Japanese, 1830s – c.1871); seal name Masugin (増銀); Marks: 08-005 | 304a

    Date: No date/censor seal (privately printed?)

    Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 230 x 295 mm

    Description:
    Half-length portrait of a young woman in three-quarter view, turned slightly to the left, holding a handheld paper lantern (tesage andon, 手提行灯, which casts light on her face. She wears a blue kimono adorned with chrysanthemum roundels over a red under-kimono, with a blue collar featuring a meander pattern. Her hair is elaborately styled with combs and kanzashi hairpins, indicative of her profession as a geisha. A willow tree is depicted in the background. The design on the lantern likely repeats the publisher's device in red.

    Estimated production date: c. 1830s.

  • NEW

    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni III (歌川豊国, 1786–1865)
    Signed: 豊国 (Toyokuni) [Toshidama cartouche, with "画" (ga) absent after repair]
    Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō (伊場屋仙三郎)
    Censor Seals: 福・村松 (Fuku, Muramatsu) – 1849–1851
    Block Carver: Yokokawa Takejirō (横川竹二郎, fl. 1845–1863) [彫竹 (Hori Take) seal trimmed away]
    Media: Uchiwa-e (fan print), color woodblock print, 213 × 265 mm

    Title: [Unclear, in red cartouche]

    Half-length portrait of a woman, turned to the left, wearing an outer garment with olive, brown, and yellow stripes. The inner kimono collar features a wisteria (fuji 藤) pattern, and her obi is decorated with scalloped roundels. She holds an object under her arm, wrapped in yellow and purple covers. Behind her, a possible folding fan adorned with chrysanthemums is visible. A container with flowing water and pink and white flowers, possibly daisies, is also present.

    Her hair is styled traditionally, secured with a blue ribbon and an ornamental hairpin. The censor seals are faint but identifiable to the right of the title cartouche. The print has been heavily over-trimmed on the left side, cutting into the carver’s seal. A repair in the bottom left corner has removed the "画" (ga) character from the toshidama cartouche containing the artist’s signature.

    Full image:

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    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada (歌川国貞) / Toyokuni III (三代豊国) (1786–1865)

    Signed: 七十九歳豊国画 (Nanajūkyū-sai Toyokuni ga) – "Drawn by Toyokuni at the age of 79"

    Publisher: Unknown: 和泉屋 (Izumiya), active 1845–1870, Marks 02-053 | U101a

    Block Carver: Matsushima Daijirō (松嶋大次郎), active 1861–1865; seal: 松嶋彫大 (Matsushima hori-Dai)

    Censor/Date Seal: 丑極 – Year of the Ox (1865, Keiō 1), with 極 (Kiwame) approval seal

    Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 218 × 270 mm

    Series: Mitate Sangokushi [見立三國志]

    Actor: Ichimura Kakitsu IV [市村家橘] (Japanese, 1844 – 1903); other names: Onoe Kikugorō V [五代目尾上菊五郎], Onoe Baikō V, Ichimura Uzaemon XIII, Ichimura Kurōemon.

    A half-length portrait, three-quarter view of the actor Ichimura Kakitsu IV in a female role. The character wears a richly decorated purple kimono adorned with mandarin orange flowers, maple, ginkgo, and oak leaves and holds a sake cup in her right hand. Under her left arm, we see a roll of hygienic paper (onkotogami, 御髪紙)—a detail that, combined with her hair decoration, suggests a geisha profession. The background features a gradient transitioning from red to green, with cherry blossoms framing the upper portion of the composition. Dishes with food are visible on the left.

    The cartouches indicate that this print belongs to the Mitate Sangokushi (見立三國志, Parody of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms) series, suggesting a kabuki-related or literary allusion. The three lines of inscription in the white cartouche remain unread.

    This print was produced posthumously. Kunisada passed away on January 12, 1865, according to the Western calendar. In the Japanese calendar, this corresponds to the 15th day of the 12th month in the year Genji 1. This date still falls within the Year of the Rat, which, according to the Western calendar, lasted until January 26, 1865. The Year of the Ox and the first year of the Keiō era (Keiō 1) began on January 27, 1865.

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    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada II (歌川国貞) (1823–1880), also known as Kunimasa III (国政三代) or Toyokuni IV (四代歌川豊国)

    Signed: 国貞画 (Kunisada ga) with red toshidama

    Series: Genji Karuta (げんじかるた, Genji cards), in blue cartouche, right

    Title: Hana Chiru Sato (花ちる里, The Village of Falling Flowers – Chapter 11 of The Tale of Genji), in yellow-green cartouche, left

    Publisher: Enshūya Matabei (遠州屋又兵衛); Marks reference 22-009 | 057c; seal To, Hori Ni Enmata (ト堀貳遠又) (active 1845–1860s)

    Block Carver: Matsushima Fusajirō (松島房次郎), seal Matsushima Hori Fusa (松嶋彫房) (Gordon Friese, 2009, № 137)

    Censor Seal: Combined date and kiwame (極) seal; 1867 (Keiō 3, 慶応三年)

    Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e (団扇絵), color woodblock print, 233 × 294 mm

    The composition is inspired by Chapter 11, Hana Chiru Sato (花散里, The Village of Falling Flowers) from The Tale of Genji. The title cartouche (花ちる里, Hanachirusato) confirms this reference. The series title, Genji Karuta (げんじかるた, Genji Cards), refers to a traditional matching game based on Genji Monogatari. Genji Karuta sets were used for literary and poetic matching games, where players paired cards featuring text, poetry, or symbolic motifs from The Tale of Genji. These games were part of aristocratic culture, reinforcing familiarity with the novel and classical poetry. Genji Cards feature Genji-mon (源氏紋), stylized crests representing each chapter of The Tale of Genji, which were historically associated with the incense-matching game Genji-kō (源氏香).

    The elegantly dressed woman, likely the younger sister of Nyōgo Reikeiden (女御麗景殿), holds a blue double-gourd-shaped sake bottle. Her indigo black (藍黒, Aiguro) haori (羽織) is adorned with white wisteria mon and hollyhock leaves and blossoms (葵, Aoi)—the latter motif being closely associated with Chapter 11.

    The man, likely Genji himself, referenced in Chapter 11 as Daishō (大将), wears a red under-kimono with hexagons enclosing blossoms, a blue outer garment with large tsuba motifs, and an obi featuring waves and wheels. He offers the woman a red lacquered sake cup.

    A delicate pink tint between the man’s and woman’s eyes and eyebrows hints at mutual tender emotions.

    The background features a pink fabric design incorporating Genji-mon (源氏紋, stylized crests representing chapters of The Tale of Genji, historically associated with Genji-kō) and asanoha (麻の葉, hemp-leaf motifs), reinforcing the Heian court aesthetic. At the lower right, a black lacquer hexagonal container holds an assortment of unknown items, possibly sweets or ritual objects.

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    Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi (歌川国芳) (1797–1861) Signed: Ichiyūsai Kuniyoshi ga [一勇斎 國芳画] in red cartouche Date: VI/1842 – V ic/1846, single nanushi censor seal Murata (村) for censor Murata Sahei [村田佐兵衛]. Publisher: Unknown, Izuzen (Bei, 米); Marks 06-028 | U103a Media: Rigid fan print (Aiban Yoko-e Uchiwa-e, 合判横絵 団扇絵), 224 x 290 mm

    Half-length portrait of a woman facing slightly to the right. She wears a patterned kimono with multiple floral and seasonal motifs, including uchiwa (round fans), plum blossoms, maple leaves, chrysanthemums, snow-covered bamboo, pine branches, and peonies. Her obi is tied in front, and a red collar is visible beneath the layers. Her hair is arranged in an elaborate updo and is adorned with a hairpin featuring a rabbit and a crescent moon, referencing lunar symbolism. She dedicates a hand towel at a washing trough (手水舎, temizuya) in a shrine. Inscriptions on the towels.

    In the background, several towels are hanging, featuring various mon (family crests) and symbols:

    • Three oak leaves
    • Crossed or intersecting hawk feathers
    • Kiri-mon (Paulownia crest, associated with Kuniyoshi)
    • Toshidama (seal of the Utagawa school)
    • Masu (枡, measuring box) motif – a square with diagonal lines
    1. Kuniyoshi Project
    2. [LIB-3428.2025] Christie’s, New York: Japanese Prints, Paintings, and Screens, Monday, 24 November 1997 / Sales Catalogue, № 130, p. 63.
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    Artist: Attributed to Katsushika Hokusai (葛飾 北斎) (1760–1849) – unsigned. Publisher: Unknown, seal Hei (平); Marks 05-004 | U377a (1848) Censor Seal: Double nanushi Hama (濱) & Kunigasa (衣笠) Date: Kōka 4–5 / Kaei 1 (1847–1848) Media: Rigid fan print (Aiban Yoko-e Uchiwa-e, 合判横絵 団扇絵), 239 × 301 mm The legendary elderly couple Jō and Uba (尉と姥), spirits of the paired pines of Takasago (高砂) and Sumiyoshi (住吉), are known as the Aioi-no-Matsu (相生の松). They symbolize marital harmony, longevity, and the enduring bond of love. The Takasago legend is one of the oldest in Japanese mythology, famously portrayed in the Noh play Takasago no Uta (高砂の歌).

    Aioi-no-Matsu – The Paired Pines of Takasago and Sumiyoshi

    The Aioi-no-Matsu refers to two pine trees growing separately but intertwined at the roots, representing an unbreakable union.
    • The Takasago pine (高砂の松) grows in Harima Province, while the Sumiyoshi pine (住吉の松) stands in Settsu Province.
    • Though physically distant, these trees are spiritually connected, like Jō and Uba, the aged couple who embody their spirits.
    • The phrase "The wind that blows through Takasago reaches Sumiyoshi" symbolizes the continuity of love and harmony across time and space.

    Aioi-no-Matsu in the Noh Play Takasago

    The Noh play Takasago, attributed to Zeami, popularized this imagery.
    • Jō and Uba appear as an elderly couple raking pine needles, revealing themselves as the spirits of the Aioi-no-Matsu.
    • The play conveys the theme of eternal harmony between husband and wife, making Aioi-no-Matsu a symbol of auspicious blessings for weddings and longevity celebrations.

    Symbolism in the Print

    This print incorporates traditional symbols of longevity and prosperity:
    • A minogame (蓑亀, "straw-cloaked turtle"), representing immortality, rests near the shore.
    • A crane (鶴, tsuru), a symbol of marital fidelity.
    • The rising sun over the ocean represents renewal and hope for the coming year.
    • Jō and Uba’s presence under the Aioi-no-Matsu (Paired Pines) evokes the traditional New Year’s wish for long life and unity.
    • The minogame and crane further reinforce New Year’s themes of prosperity and fortune.

    Comparison to MFA Boston Prints

    This print shares strong visual and thematic connections with two works attributed to Hokusai in the MFA Boston collection:
    • Accession No. 21.10269 – "Jō and Uba, the Spirits of the Pine Trees of Takasago and Sumiyoshi"
      • Depicts the couple sweeping pine needles, reinforcing themes of domestic harmony and renewal.
      • Includes a minogame and a flying crane, similar to this print.
    • Accession No. 21.7869 – Another version of "Jō and Uba"
      • Shows Jō and Uba standing, gazing at the sea, in a more expansive composition.
      • Features a large pine tree, crashing waves, and a red sun, mirroring the background elements in this print.

    MFA-B № 21.10269

    MFA-B № 21.7869

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    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) (歌川国貞) (1786–1865) Signed: 豊国画 (Toyokuni ga) in a red toshidama cartouche Publisher: Iseya Sōemon (伊勢屋惣右衛門), Marks reference 19-047 | 156d, seal Hanmoto, Ue (板元, 上) Censor Seal: Double nanushi (Watanabe & Kunigasa) Date: Kaei 2-3 (1849–1850), based on censor seals. Media: Uchiwa-e (fan print), color woodblock print, 230 × 297 mm

    An elegant moonlit conversation unfolds between a man and woman beneath blossoming cherry branches. The full moon and falling petals create a romantic yet fleeting atmosphere, reminiscent of courtly themes in The Tale of Genji (源氏物語).

    The woman on the left wears a multi-layered kimono featuring pinwheel floral motifs and geometric patterns in red, blue, and gold. She lifts a hairpin (kanzashi, 簪) to adjust her hair, suggesting modesty, refinement, or quiet engagement in conversation.

    The man on the right wears a dark purple haori (羽織, outer robe) adorned with gentian (rindō, 竜胆) mon, a crest associated with nobility and refinement. His red and white obi features Genji-mon, further reinforcing the aesthetic and symbolic ties to Genji Monogatari.

    The gentian mon and purple hues evoke Heian-era literary aesthetics, aligning with Genji Monogatari's visual traditions. Though the characters in this fan print are not explicitly named, the composition closely resembles the scene "At moon-viewing night, Genji visits Yūgao," presented below.

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    Softcover auction catalogue, 267 x 209 mm, pictorial wrappers with white lettering to cover, black and white lettering to spine; pp. [2] 3-171 [1]; auction held at Christie’s New York on Monday, 24 November 1997, featuring lots 1-297, with properties from Sir Valentine Abdy and various owners; includes descriptions and images of Japanese prints, paintings, and screens. Sheet with realized prices laid in. Title-page: JAPANESE PRINTS, PAINTINGS AND SCREENS | Properties of | SIR VALENTINE ABDY | VARIOUS OWNERS | Auction | Monday, 24 November 1997 at 10.00 a.m. (Lots 1-297) | 502 Park Avenue at 59th Street | New York, New York 10022 | Sale Code | In sending written bids or making inquiries, this sale should be referred to as #8782 | Viewing | […] | Christie’s | 502 Park Avenue at 59th Street | New York, New York 10022 | Telephone: (212) 546 1000 | Internet: http://www.christies.com | (30) Registered at the above address No. 1128160 | {CHRISTIE’S device} || Sixty Fan Prints in this catalogue. 39. TOYOKUNI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.9 × 26.6 cm.); Nakanocho yozakura no zu "Picture of cherry blossoms by night in Nakanocho", a courtesan and two kamuro strolling under cherry trees, signed Toyokuni ga, the censor’s seal corresponding to 1817, published by Ibaya Senzaburo—good impression, very good color, slightly soiled, upper right corner torn and restored. — Estimate: $2,000-3,000. 40. TOYOKUNI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.8 cm.); a bust portrait of a beauty holding the edge of a hand-towel flung over her shoulders, signed Toyokuni ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1822—very good impression, good color, slightly soiled and rubbed along edges, a minor stain by the edge. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 79. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (23.2 × 30.1 cm.); a bust portrait of a woman dyeing her teeth black against a light-blue background sprinkled with mica, the facial lines printed in deep red, signed Kunisada ga—fine impression and color, slightly soiled along edges, binding holes on right restored, a few minute holes on right. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 80. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (23.8 × 30.1 cm.); a bust portrait of a beauty in a flower-patterned purple robe exposing the left shoulder against a light-blue background sprinkled with mica, the facial lines printed in deep red, signed Kunisada ga, square kiwame censor’s seal and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—fine impression and color, slightly soiled and stained along edges, a few minor stains on right. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 82. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 26.3 cm.); a woman in a kimono patterned with blue seals against a background of purple and black checks and green stenciled “deerskin” patterned with horses and grasses, signed Kunisada ga, the censor’s seal corresponding to 1826, published by Ibaya Senzaburo—fine impression and color, slight stain along right edge, binding holes on right, a minute worm hole in the lower margin. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 83. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.9 × 27.1 cm.); a woman wiping her neck before an iris-patterned background, signed Kunisada ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1826, published by Ibaya Senzaburo—very good impression and color, corners slightly soiled, minor damage and binding holes on right edge, a minute worm hole on the lower margin. — Estimate: $2,500-3,500. 84. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.9 cm.); a woman holding a bamboo basket against a background of tie-dyed fabric patterned with hagi (bush clover), from the series Mutamagao “Six jewel faces”, the pattern on the background alluding to the Jewel River in Noji (Hagi no Tamagawa) in Ōmi province, suggested by the title, signed Kunisada ga—fine impression and color, binding holes on right. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 85. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.8 cm.); Prince Mitsugi against a background of tie-dyed fabric patterns holding a spray of yamabuki, from the series Mutamagao “Six jewel faces”, the flower alluding to the Jewel River in Ide (Yamabuki no Tamagawa) in Yamashiro province, signed Kunisada ga—fine impression and color, slightly stained along side edges, binding holes on right. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 86. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 30 cm.); a woman against a background of tie-dyed fabric patterns holding a sake cup and a paper toy figure of a monk, from the series Mutamagao “Six jewel faces”, the monk alluding to the Jewel River in Kōya (Koya no Tamagawa) in Kii province, signed Kunisada ga—fine impression and color, binding holes on both sides, slightly soiled along the lower edge. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 87. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 30 cm.); a woman washing clothes in a basin against a background of tie-dyed fabric patterns, from the series Mutamagao “Six jewel faces”, alluding to the Jewel River in Chōfu (Chōfu no Tamagawa) in Musashi province, signed Kunisada ga—fine impression and color, binding holes on both sides, a few minute worm holes near edges. — Estimate: $2,000-3,000. 88. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 30.2 cm.); a courtesan against a background of tie-dyed fabric patterns looking at a book illustration of a woman pounding cloth, from the series Mutamagao “Six jewel faces”, the book illustration alluding to the Jewel River in Mishima (Toi no Tamagawa) in Settsu province, signed Kunisada ga—fine impression and color, slightly soiled along left edge, binding holes on right, a few minor worm holes on left. — Estimate: $2,500-3,500. 89. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.8 cm.); a beauty against a background of tie-dyed fabric patterns holding a pipe looking at toy birds hanging from bamboo, from the series Mutamagao “Six jewel faces”, the bird decorations alluding to the Jewel River in Noda (Chidori no Tamagawa) in Rikuzen province, signed Kunisada ga—fine impression and color, binding holes on both sides, slightly stained along lower edge, a few minute worm holes. — Estimate: $2,500-3,500. 97. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 29.2 cm.); Fune kara agari “Disembarking from the boat”, signed Toyokuni ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—fine impression and color, binding holes and minor damage on right. — Estimate: $2,500-3,500. 98. KUNISADA: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.34 cm.); Shinkei atsurae zome “Modern form of custom-dyeing”, illustrating a beauty before a background of textile patterns fishing clams from a bowl with a stem of flower, signed Kocho Toyokuni ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—fine impression, color, and condition. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 103. KUNISADA AND HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.1 × 29.5 cm. ea. approx.); a complete set of seven prints from the series Sohitsu nanato meguri “Twin-brush journey to the seven hot springs [of Hakone]”, comprising Kiga, Tonosawa, Yumoto, Miyanoshtia, Dogashima, Ashinoyu and Sokokura, each of a beauty or a male figure before a landscape of a separate hot spring, signed Toyokuni ga and Hiroshige hitsu and published by Ibaya Senzaburo, censor’s seal corresponding to 1854, second month—fine impressions and color, slightly soiled along bottom edges, some with fold line and minute worm hole along the left edge with restoration on reverse. This landscape series appears to be unrecorded. — Estimate: $15,000-20,000. 110. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22 × 29.9 cm.); Suika no suisho “Watermelon, water”, a beauty extracting seeds from a slice of watermelon, from the series Gogyo no uchi “The five natural elements”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Surugaya Sakujiro—very good impression and color, binding holes on right, slightly soiled and stained along edges, some minute worm holes, upper left corner torn. — Estimate: $1,500-2,000. 111. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22 × 29.9 cm.); Chochin no kasho “Lantern, fire”, a beauty lighting a lantern, from the series Gogyo no uchi “The five natural elements”, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga and published by Surugaya Sakujiro—very good impression and color, slightly soiled and stained along edges, binding holes on left, minor worm holes on upper corners, upper right corner torn. — Estimate: $1,000-1,500. 112. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 29.1 cm.); Zato no seiran “Fine weather for a blind man” from the series Otsu hakkei “Eight views of Otsu-e”, illustrated by a beauty and a dog, the small cartouche depicting a blind man attacked by a dog, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, published by Tsujya Yasubei—fine impression and color, binding holes partly torn on right, a minute worm hole on upper right margin. Two other images from the same set are illustrated in Narazaki Muneshige, Victoria and Albert Museum II, Ukiyo-e masterpieces in European collections (Tokyo: Kodansha, 1989), pls. 34 and 35. — Estimate: $2,000-3,000. 113. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.4 cm.); a woman standing by a lantern and holding an umbrella under cherry petals falling against the night sky, from the series Ukiyo hakkai “Eight nocturnal trysts”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—fine impression and color, paper slightly toned and stained, minor damage on left edge, a pin hole on upper left margin. — Estimate: $2,500-3,500. 115. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.4 cm.); a woman putting her hand on a palanquin in the lantern-light, from the series Ukiyo hakkai “Eight nocturnal trysts”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—fine impression and color, a minute hole in the upper right margin, otherwise very good condition. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 116. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.6 cm.); a woman beside a bath tub, from the series Ukiyo hakkai “Eight nocturnal trysts”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—very good impression and color, a minute hole in upper right margin, a minor tear in the lower margin on right edge, otherwise good condition. — Estimate: $2,000-3,000. 117. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.5cm.); a woman in the evening on a boat enjoying green soybeans, from the series Ukiyo hakkei “Eight nocturnal trysts,” signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—Fine impression and color, minute hole on upper right margin, a few minute ink smudges. Another image from the same set of the Niwaka festival in the Yoshiwara, is illustrated in Narazaki Muneshige, Ukiyo-e Masterpieces in European Collections (Tokyo: Kodansha, 1989), pl. 36, and in R. A. Crighton, The Floating World, Japanese Popular Prints 1700-1900 (London: Her Majesty’s Stationery Office, 1973), no. 11. — Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 118. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.4cm.); an ochazuke (rice with tea) shop waitress carrying a tray and teapots, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—very good impression and color, a worm hole on upper edge, otherwise very good condition. — Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 119. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.6cm.); a beauty in a mirror with a sprinkled mica background arranging her hair, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—fine impression and color, binding holes on left, two minute holes in the upper right margin. Other images from the same set, of a mother and baby, and a woman trimming her hairline, are illustrated in Suzuki Jūzō, Kuniyoshi (Tokyo: Heibonsha, 1992), pls. 280 and 281; and Suzuki Jūzō, Kunisada/Kuniyoshi/Eisen, Ukiyo-e Taikei, vol. 10, (Tokyo: Shueisha, 1974), pl. 44; A beauty applying powder is in Utagawa Kuniyoshi ten (Utagawa Kuniyoshi exhibition) (Tokyo: Riccar Art Museum, 1978), no. 172. — Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 120. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.9 × 29.5cm.); a beauty smoking reflected in a mirror, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—very good impression and color, a minor worm hole in the lower left margin. See lots 119 and 121 for other images in the set. — Estimate: $4,000–6,000. 121. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.2cm.); a beauty reflected in a mirror with a sprinkled mica background frightening a cat with her reflection, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—fine impression and color, very slight glue stain along top and left edge, minute pin holes on upper right margin. Another impression of this print was sold in these Rooms, June 27, 1985, lot 106. See lots 119 and 120 for other images in the set. — Estimate: $6,000–8,000. 122. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (23.7 × 30.7cm. ea. approx.); two prints from the series Dogai kesho no tawamure “Brushes with make-up off the beaten path,” one titled Omori illustrating animated cosmetic utensils strolling on the seashore at Omori; and the other watching fireworks on a river bank, titled Hanabi “Fireworks”, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi giga and the other signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi giga, published by Kogaya Katsugorō—very good impression, slightly faded, trimmed and laid down, the first with a few minute worm holes on top. — Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 126. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.4 × 28.5cm.); illustrating figures on a blue ground forming spinning tops, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi giga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—very good impression and color, extensive wood grain, trimmed into the shape of the fan. — Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 127. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 30.5cm.); Tōsei musume katagi “The spirit of modern young women”, a beauty repapering shōji while a child peeks through the frame, signed Chooro Kunisada ga and published by Ebiyu Rinnosuke—very good impression and color, slightly soiled and rubbed along bottom and left edge, minute worm holes in upper left margin, a minute stain in the center. — Estimate: $1,500–2,000. 128. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 29cm.); a beauty standing by a stone lantern in a moonlit garden, subtitled Tsuki “Moon”, from the series Setsugekka no uchi “Snow, moon and flowers”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga—fine impression, very good color, damaged binding holes on left edge, some minor worm holes on edges. — Estimate: $2,000–3,000 129. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 30.1cm.); Kaze “Wind”, a beauty on a boat enjoying the evening cool on the river, from the series Kachōgetsu “Flowers, birds, wind and moon”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Sanoya Kihei—very good impression and color, some minor stains, binding holes on left, a minute worm hole on upper right margin. — Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 130. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (23.3 × 29.6cm.); a beauty dedicating a hand towel at a washing trough in a shrine, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga—fine impression and color, slightly soiled and rubbed along edges, vertical center fold. — Estimate: $2,000–3,000 131. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.6 × 29.3cm.); Sumidagawa “Sumida River”, a beauty under a cherry tree by the river bank putting her hand on a figure of Daruma, representing cherry blossoms, from the series Rokkakusen “Six flower rivers”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Iseya Sōemon—very good impression and color, slightly stained along edges, slightly soiled, binding holes on right, corners trimmed, a minute worm hole in the upper right margin. Other images from the same set: Ayasegawa, with hydrangea, in Suzuki Jūzō, Kuniyoshi (Tokyo: Heibonsha, 1992), pl. 288; and Okawa, with morning glory, in Tokyo kokuritsu hakubutsukan zuhan mokuroku, Ukiyo-e hanga hen (Illustrated catalogue of the Tokyo National Museum, Ukiyo-e prints), vol. 3, (Tokyo: Tokyo bijutsu, 1974), no. 3063. — Estimate: $1,000–1,500. 132. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 28.9cm.); a beauty with a partially unrolled letter before a portrait of Sōjōbō, king of the tengu, in a decorated frame, entitled Imayō gakumen awase “Collection of modern framed pictures”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga—very good impression and color, very slightly stained on the bottom, binding holes on right, a minor worm hole in upper right margin. — Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 133. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 28.9cm.); a beauty holding a fan and burning a taper beside a portrait of Soga no Jūrō in a decorated frame, entitled Imayō gakumen awase “Collection of modern framed pictures”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga—very good impression and color, binding holes on both sides, a minor worm hole in the upper right margin. Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 134. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.9 × 29.3cm.); a woman biting the edge of her kerchief before a backdrop of a cart and clematis vines, entitled Mitate Konkai “Parody of Konkai” (the alternate title for the kyōgen farce, Tsuri gitsune), signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—fine impression and color, two minute worm holes on upper left margin, otherwise very good condition. Another impression of this print was sold in these Rooms, November 2, 1996, lot 612. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 135. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (23.7 × 30.1cm.); Aishō kagami “Mirror of compatibility”, a beauty against a stylized wave-and-fish-patterned background reading a letter, below a round mirror cartouche enclosing a bust portrait of Shirai Gonpachi, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Kyūbei—fine impression and color, minor glue stain along upper edge, few minute worm holes in margins. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 136. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.4cm.); a beauty with an umbrella beside a playbill, entitled Imayō sugata “Modern style”, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga and published by Iseya Sōemon—fine impression and color, a minute worm hole on left edge, a minute hole on left, binding holes on right. Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 137. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.2cm.); a woman on a bridge under an umbrella throwing paper votive slips printed with Buddhist figures into the wind, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga—very good impression, color and condition. Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 138. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.5 × 28.9cm.); Koshikibu, from the series Reppuden “Legends of heroic women”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—very good impression and color, binding holes on left, minute worm holes on top in the center. Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 139. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.6cm.); Kitsune “Fox”, from the series Mitsuboshi no uchi, a beauty wiping her hands with a towel at a washing trough at an Inari shrine, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1852, second month, published by Kojimaya Jūbei—very good impression and color, binding holes on left, very slight stain along edges and in lower margin, otherwise good condition. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 140. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.6cm.); Karudo “Hunter”, from the series Mitsuboshi no uchi, illustrating a beauty in a thick overcoat holding a piece of wood, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1852, second month—very good impression and color, binding holes on right, otherwise good condition. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 141. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.5cm.); Atsurae zome konomi no irodori “Favorite colors for custom-dying” and subtitled Fuji nezumi “Mount Fuji gray”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month, published by Iseya Sōemon—fine impression and color, binding holes on left edge, otherwise good condition. Two other images from the same set, entitled Edo murasaki “Edo purple” and Ai miru cha “Tea-hut brown”, are illustrated in Uragami Toshirō, Ukiyo-e Utagawa-ha san kyōsho ten - Kunisada Kuniyoshi Hiroshige no sekai (Exhibition of three masters of the Utagawa school - the world of Kunisada, Kuniyoshi and Hiroshige -) (Hagi: TYS, 1991), pls. 74, 75, 109; and Tokyo kokuritsu hakubutsukan zuhan mokuroku, Ukiyo-e hanga hen (Illustrated catalogue of Tokyo National Museum, Ukiyo-e prints), vol. 3, (Tokyo: Tokyo bijutsu, 1974), no. 3053. Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 142. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29cm.); Natsu no yugure “A summer evening”, a beauty on a veranda with overhanging branches of a flowering tree, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month, published by Enshūya Matabei—very good impression and color, slightly soiled along bottom edge, minor stains on the bottom. Two other images from the same set, featuring hydrangea and peony, were sold in these Rooms, April 26, 1995, lots 247A and 248. Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 143. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (20.8 × 29.9cm.); a woman on a terrace reading a libretto, from the series Enkyoku zōui “Collection of charming music”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month—very good impression and color, binding holes on left, paper thinned in upper left margin, otherwise good condition. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 144. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (20.7 × 29.3cm.); a woman by a koto reading a libretto, from the series Enkyoku zoroi “Collection of charming music”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month—very good impression and color, very slight stain along side edges, otherwise good condition. Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 145. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.4cm.); a woman on a terrace dancing with a fan, from the series Enkyoku zoroi “Collection of charming music”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month—very good impression, color and condition. Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 146. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.4cm.); a woman reading a libretto and a cat dozing on her back, from the series Enkyoku zoroi “Collection of charming music”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month—very good impression and color, slightly stained along side edges, binding holes on left edge. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 147. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.5cm.); a beauty on a terrace overlooking the flowering plum and bushes of a garden in snow carrying snow on a tray, the snow image from the series Bijin gekka setsu “Beauties, moon, flower and snow”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month, published by Kojimaya Jūbei—very good impression and color, slightly stained along edges, minute tear on upper left margin, otherwise good condition. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 148. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (23.2 × 30cm.); Ryo “Cool”, a woman dipping her wrists in the river over the edge of a boat, from the series Imayō rokkasen “Six modern choices for summer”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, the censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month, published by Izumiya—fine impression and color, left edge very slightly soiled, minute worm holes on lower margins, otherwise good condition. Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 149. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.5cm.); Mizuhan “Water guard”, a woman standing by a tank of goldfish, from the series Imayō rokkasen “Six modern choices for summer”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, the censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month, published by Izumiya—very good impression and color, very slight stain along side edges, otherwise good condition. Another image from the same set, titled Hirune “Afternoon nap”, is illustrated in Suzuki Jūzō, Kuniyoshi (Tokyo: Heibonsha, 1992), p. 289, and in Nakau Ei, Edo onna ukiyo-e meisaku ten (Exhibition of masterpieces of ukiyo-e of Edo women), (Osaka: D square, 1993), no. 66. Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 150. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 29.7cm.); Doyo mairi “Midsummer visit”, a woman carrying a tea cask beside a patterned screen, from the series Imayō rokkasen “Six modern choices for summer”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, the censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month, published by Izumiya—fine impression and color, binding holes on left edge, a minute worm hole in right margin, otherwise very good condition. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 151. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.5cm.); Sensōji no yuki “Snow at Sensōji temple”, from the series Mutsu geshiki “Six views”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1854, second month, published by Iseya Sōemon—fine impression and color, slight stain along both side edges, otherwise good condition. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 152. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 30.1cm.); two geisha in identical costume on a terrace dancing with folding fans, signed Kuniyoshi ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1854, fourth month, published by Ibaya Senzaburō—fine impression and color, slightly stained along side edges, binding holes on right. Estimate: $1,500–2,000. 153. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (17.3 × 27.6cm. ea. approx.); a group of four prints comprising: a woman at a goldfish seller’s booth, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga; Sakura no seirei ryakuden “Abbreviated biographies of charming women”, signed Chooro Kuniyoshi ga and published by Tsujiyama Yasubei; and Hajimetsuki and Shunju from the series Gosekku no uchi “The five seasonal festivals”, signed Ichiyusai Kuniyoshi ga and Chooro Kuniyoshi ga, published by Kojimaya Jūbei—very good impressions and color, binding holes, the third and fourth with minor worm holes on top, the third with some minor stains. Estimate: $1,500–2,000. 167. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.5 × 29cm. ea. approx.); three figures with their facial features composed by the Chinese characters for zen (good) and aku (evil), entitled Zen aku hana no ayatsuri “Puppets manipulated by good and evil”, signed Hiroshige gihitsu and published by Ibaya Senzaburō; and Kyo Arashiyama, Togetsukyō “Togetsu bridge, Arashiyama, Kyoto” from the series Santo fūkei “Views of three cities”, signed Hiroshige ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1854, fifth month—good impressions, the first slightly faded and toned, the second slightly soiled, rib marks with slight glue stains, some minute worm holes restored, pasted on paper on edges, both trimmed into the shapes of the fans. Estimate: $4,000–6,000. 168. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (21.8 × 29.5cm.); illustrating a riverbank and boats, signed Oju (by order) Hiroshige sha—good impression and color, slightly soiled, vertical centerfold line restored, restoration on corners and at the bottom near the center. Estimate: $3,000–4,000. 182. KUNIMARU: aiban uchiwa-e (22.5 × 29.3cm.); a bust portrait of a beauty with a pipe looking at a mirror stand against a purple and black-check background holding a pipe, signed Kunimaru ga and published by Ibaya Senzaburō—good impression, very good color, slightly soiled, rubbed and stained along edges, binding holes on right, a few minor worm holes. Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 183. KUNIHIDE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.5cm.); a beauty with a shamisen before a background of iris, entitled Meisho Kihōji Horikiri hanashobu “Famous place, Iris at Kihō Temple in Horikiri”, signed Kunihide ga, censor’s seal corresponding to 1853, second month, published by Masugin—very good impression and color, very slight stain along edges, binding holes on left edge. Estimate: $2,000–3,000. 184. KUNIYOSHI, KUNICHIKA AND YOSHITSUYA; three uchiwa-e of umbrellas, one of blue ground with Yoshikuni seal of Kuniyoshi, another with inscription Tokiwazu uta and crest, and another of the reverse of the second, the second and third published by Ibaya Kyūbei; a diptych of a theatrical scene, actor Ichikawa Danjūrō IX in the Shibaraku role within a mimasu crest border, signed (by order) Toyohara Kunichika hitsu, dated Meiji 11 (1878) and published by Tanaka Shōzō; and a sumizuri-e of a theatrical scene, including the name of the stage-carpenter and property man, signed Ichieisai Yoshitsuya ga—very good impressions and color, slightly soiled, slight stain along upper edges and minor worm holes near edges, the second, very good color, slightly creased on upper left corner on the left panel, the third, slightly toned, soiled, creased and rubbed, some restorations. Estimate: $2,000–3,000.
  • NEW
    Softcover auction catalogue, 267 x 209 mm, pictorial wrappers with red lettering to cover, black and white lettering to spine; pp. [2] 3-179 [1]; auction held at Christie’s New York on Thursday, 24 April 1997, featuring lots 60-340, with properties from Japan Society, Inc., N.Y., Mary Griggs Burke, a lady, a European private collection, and various sources; includes descriptions and images of Japanese paintings, prints, ceramics, lacquer, and other works of art.

    Title-page: JAPANESE ART | Properties from | JAPAN SOCIETY, INC., N.Y. | MARY GRIGGS BURKE | A LADY | A EUROPEAN PRIVATE COLLECTION | AND FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | Auction | Thursday, 24 April 1997 at 11.00 a.m. approx. (Lots 60-194) | and at 2.00 p.m. (Lots 195-340) | 502 Park Avenue at 59th Street | New York, New York 10022 | Sale Code | In sending written bids or making inquiries, this sale should be referred to as #8670 | Viewing | […] |Christie's | 502 Park Avenue at 59th Street | New York, New York 10022 | Telephone: (212) 546 1000 | Internet: | http://www.christies.com | (40) Registered at the above address No. 1128160 | {CHRISTIE'S device} ||

    Sixteen Fan Prints in this catalogue. 248. KUNIYOSHI: aiban uchiwa-e (22.5 × 29.4 cm.); entitled Hana no nishiki "Flower brocade", a half-length portrait of a beauty on a peony-decorated ground", signed Kuniyoshi ga and dated 4/1855—very good impression and color, some minute worm holes, binding holes on right. — Estimate: $2,500–3,500. 280. HIROSHIGE: aiban yoko-e, uchiwa-e (21.8 x 28.4 cm.); Tokaido, zuso Hakone sanchō kosui no zu “View of the lake in mountains at Hakone on the Tokaido between Izu and Sagami province”, and subtitled Bōsetsu “Evening snow”, from the series Omote ura chiji hakkei “Eight views of stations of the Tokaido and Kiso-kaidō”, signed Hiroshige ga—very good impression and color, faint vertical center fold restored on reverse, slightly soiled near corners. PROVENANCE: Theodor Scheiwe, sold in these Rooms, March 21, 1989, lot 264. PUBLISHED: Rose Hempel, Ausstellung Japanische Holzschnitte (Munster, 1959), no. 244, p. 145; Rose Hempel, Kunst Aus Japan (Essen: Villa Hügel, 1972), no. 496, p. 273; For another impression see Suzuki Juzo, Hiroshige (Tokyo: Nihon keizai shimbun, 1970), pl. 46. — Estimate: $10,000-15,000. 281. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.2 x 28.1 cm.); Yotsuya Shinjuku tsutsumi no hana “Cherry blossoms on the bank at Shinjuku, Yotsuya”, three women on a terrace overlooking cherry blossoms on the opposite bank in the night, signed Hiroshige ga, dated 1856, second month, and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—very good impression, color and condition. —Estimate: $8,000-10,000. 282. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 29.2 cm.); Sugita no baien "Plum garden at Sugita", signed Hiroshige ga and published by Sanoya Kihei—very good impression and color, binding holes on right restored, a minute repair on lower left. — Estimate: $8,000-10,000. 283. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.2 × 29.7 cm.); Buya Tsukuda no isaribune "Fishing boats at Tsukudajima in Musashi province", from the series Shokoku meisho "Famous places in the various provinces", signed Hiroshige ga over the publisher’s seal, published by Dansendō [Ibaya Senzaburō]—very good impression and color, faint center fold reinforced on the reverse, margins slightly soiled. PROVENANCE: Alexis Rouart, sold American Art Association, New York, February 6, 1922, lot 210; This impression was sold in these Rooms, December 4, 1984, lot 212. — Estimate: $10,000-15,000. 284. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.6 × 29 cm.); a tree and branches of yaezakura (double cherry blossoms) on a yellow background, signed Hiroshige hitsu and published by Dansendō [Ibaya Senzaburō]—very good impression and color, slightly stained, restoration on right. EXHIBITED: Pratt Graphics Center, New York, "Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books" (February 26—March 19, 1983); PUBLISHED: Sebastian Izzard, Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books (New York: The Ukiyo-e Society of America, 1983), no. 77. — Estimate: $6,000-8,000 285. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (23.2 × 29.4 cm.); Rokugo no watashi "The ferry at Rokugō", from the series Meisho fūkei "Famous landscapes", signed Hiroshige ga—very good impression and color, a worm hole in lower left margin, pasted on paper on upper corners; EXHIBITED: Pratt Graphics Center, New York, "Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books" (February 29—March 19, 1983); PUBLISHED: Sebastian Izzard, Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books (New York: The Ukiyo-e Society of America, 1983), no. 60. — Estimate: $6,000-8,000. 286. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (21.9 × 29 cm.); Shinshu, Suwako yukihare "Clear weather after snow at Lake Suwa in Shinano province", from the series Fuji sanjūrokkei no uchi "The thirty-six views of Mount Fuji", signed Hiroshige ga, dated 1842, and published by Ibaya Kyubei—very good impression and color, margins slightly soiled, vertical center fold restored.. EXHIBITED: Pratt Graphics Center, New York, "Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books" (February 29—March 19, 1983). PUBLISHED: Sebastian Izzard, Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books (New York: The Ukiyo-e Society of America, 1983), no. 51. — Estimate: $5,000-7,000. 287. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.4 × 28.7 cm.); Kodai buto "Classical dance", signed Ryūsai and published by Maruya Seijiro—good impression and color, slightly foxed, some minor worm holes, slightly creased, mat stain along edges, pasted on paper on upper corners, minor tear on upper edge. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 288. HIROSHIGE: chūban uchiwa-e (24.6 × 18.6 cm.); Kai Kawaguchi kosui no zu "View of the lake at Kawaguchi in Kai province", signed Hiroshige hitsu—good impression and color, slightly soiled, faint vertical center fold, binding holes on right restored. — Estimate: $3,000-4,000. 289. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.8 × 28.2 cm.); Karasaki no hitotsu matsu "Single pine tree at Karasaki", from the series Omi hakkei "Eight views of Lake Biwa", signed Hiroshige ga, dated 1852, seventh month, and published by Enshuya Matabei—very good impression and color, minute stains in lower right, pin holes on upper corners, vertical center fold. — Estimate: $5,000-7,000. 290. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (23.4 × 30 cm.); three stems of peonies on a blue background, signed Hiroshige ga, dated 1857, second month, and published by Marukyudo—very good impression and color, holes on right restored, some minor worming restored, otherwise good condition. EXHIBITED: Pratt Graphics Center, New York, "Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books" (February 26—March 19, 1983). PUBLISHED: Sebastian Izzard, Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books (New York: The Ukiyo-e Society of America, 1983), no. 76. — Estimate: $10,000-15,000. 291. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22 × 29.8 cm.); Kodai meiyo shiki no hana "Flowers of the four seasons with historical associations", subtitled Natsu, Mikawa Yatsuhashi no tojaku "Summer, Iris at Yatsuhashi in Mikawa province" and a rectangular cartouche with a portrait of the poet Ariwara no Narihira, signed Hiroshige ga and published by Surugaya—very good impression and color, margins slightly soiled, binding holes on left restored. EXHIBITED: Pratt Graphics Center, New York, "Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books" (February 26—March 19, 1983). PUBLISHED: Sebastian Izzard, Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books (New York: The Ukiyo-e Society of America, 1983), no. 52. — Estimate: $10,000-15,000. 292. HIROSHIGE: aiban uchiwa-e (22.1 × 26 cm.); a seated woman taking a sake cup from a boat-shaped porcelain bowl under a night river landscape with full-moon, signed Hiroshige ga, dated 1852, fourth month, and published by Ibaya Senzaburo—very good impression and color, slightly stained, a minute worm hole restored. EXHIBITED: Pratt Graphics Center, New York, "Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books" (February 29—March 19, 1983). PUBLISHED: Sebastian Izzard, Hiroshige: An exhibition of selected prints and illustrated books (New York: The Ukiyo-e Society of America, 1983), no. 69. — Estimate: $4,000-6,000. 312. HIROSHIGE II: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.1 cm.); an aizuri-e “blue print”, Tsunohazu juniso otaki “Great waterfall of the twelve shrines at Tsunohazu”, signed Hiroshige ga, dated 1861—very good impression and color, corners slightly soiled, binding holes and minor worming on left restored. PROVENANCE: A. Maroni. — Estimate: $4,000-6,000. 313. HIROSHIGE II: aiban uchiwa-e (22.7 × 29.7 cm.); Owari, Atsuta kaigan “Atsuta Beach in Owari province”, from the series Shokoku meisho zue “Illustrations of famous places in the various provinces”, signed Hiroshige ga, seal dated [1862], and published by Iseya Soemon—very good impression and color, slightly browned along lower edge. — Estimate: $8,000-10,000.
  • NEW
    Two softcover volumes, 295 × 210 mm each, uniformly bound in wrappers with black and grey lettering and a vignette to the front, lettering to the spine, and vignette to the back; both housed in a black cloth slipcase with gilt lettering in a gilt octagonal frame. Vol. 1: Pale yellow wrappers, vignette in colour, lettering, two green flyleaves in the front and back, pp.: [1] 2–167 [1]; contains a detailed study of Hiroshige’s travel prints, including the Tōkaidō and Kisokaidō series. Title-page: PRINTS | BY UTAGAWA HIROSHIGE | IN THE JAMES A. MICHENER | COLLECTION | VOLUME 1 | Essay by Kobayashi Tadashi | Catalogue by Howard A. Link | {publisher’s device} Honolulu Academy of Arts 1991 || Vol. 2: Cream wrappers, vignette in black and white, lettering, pp.: [1] 2–64; provides additional analysis, notes, and a selected bibliography. Title-page: PRINTS | BY UTAGAWA HIROSHIGE | IN THE JAMES A. MICHENER | COLLECTION | VOLUME 2 | Essays and Catalogue Commentaries | by Howard A. Link | {vignette portrait} | {publisher’s device} Honolulu Academy of Arts 1991 || Contributors: Utagawa Hiroshige (Japanese, 1797–1858) – artist. James A. Michener (American, 1907–1997) – collector. Kobayashi Tadashi (Japanese, born 1941) – essayist. Howard A. Link (American, dates unknown) – catalogue compiler. Honolulu Academy of Arts (now Honolulu Museum of Art) – publisher.

  • NEW
    Hardcover volume 295 x 240 mm, blue cloth spine over paper boards; front pictorial with lettering, back blue with white lettering, red lettering to spine; pp. [1–6] 7–527 [528]; catalogue of the Alan Medaugh collection of Utagawa Hiroshige prints, featuring an annotated catalogue of 500 works, divided into nine thematic sections, with essays by leading scholars.

    Title-page: HIROSHIGE | NATURE AND THE CITY | PRINTS FROM THE ALAN MEDAUGH COLLECTION | — | CATALOGUE BY JIM DWINGER | ESSAYS BY JOHN T. CARPENTER | ANDREAS MARKS | RHIANNON PAGET | SHIHO SASAKI | COLLECTION PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYOKO MATSUBA | — | PUBLISHED BY LUDION ||

    Contributors:

    • Utagawa Hiroshige [歌川 広重] a.k.a. Andō Hiroshige [安藤 広重] (Japanese, 1797–1858) – artist.
    • Medaugh, Alan (American, 1963 – 2024) – collector.
    • Dwinger, Jim – catalogue compiler.
    • Carpenter, John T. – essayist.
    • Marks, Andreas – essayist.
    • Paget, Rhiannon – essayist.
    • Sasaki, Shiho – essayist.
    • Matsuba, Ryoko – collection photographer.
    • Ludion – publisher.

    ISBN: 978-9493039988.

    For more information, you can refer to the publisher's page: accartbooks.com

  • NEW

    Material: Coco de Mer (Lodoicea maldivica) shell with engraved decoration, bronze chain, metal fittings, and inlaid elements
    Origin: Likely Persia (Iran)
    Date: 19th century
    Dimensions: 270 × 150 × 130 mm
    Weight: 608 g

    This begging bowl (kashkul) is carved from the shell of a Coco de Mer (Lodoicea maldivica) seed, a material historically associated with mysticism and spiritual significance in Persian Sufi traditions. The exterior is intricately engraved with floral motifs, architectural elements, and figural depictions, while a bronze chain is attached via metal loops for carrying or suspension. The bowl retains its natural curvature with a scalloped rim and detailed craftsmanship.

    • Floral and Botanical Motifs: Engraved sunflowers, vines, and foliage patterns symbolizing divine wisdom and enlightenment.
    • Figural Depiction: One side features a standing figure in military attire, possibly a Persian warrior, historical figure, or Sufi dervish.
    • Architectural Details: Arches and ornamental borders suggest Persian or Mughal artistic influences.
    • Inlaid Accents: Small inlays of turquoise or glass enhance the visual appeal and craftsmanship.

    The kashkul was traditionally used by Sufi dervishes as a symbol of renunciation and humility, carried to receive alms and spiritual offerings. The use of Coco de Mer, a rare and exotic material, elevated the object's status, making it a prized possession among high-ranking Sufi mystics.

    Unlike plain metal kashkuls, which often bore inscriptions of Persian poetry or Quranic verses, this example features extensive figural and architectural designs, suggesting it may have been a presentation or ceremonial piece rather than a simple, functional object. The presence of a bronze chain reinforces its portability and use in daily Sufi practices.

    This piece is a rare blend of natural form and intricate artistic craftsmanship, making it a significant example of Persian Sufi material culture.

    See Coco de Mer Seed (Lodoicea maldivica) [VO-0474.2024] in this collection.

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    Material: Coco de Mer (Lodoicea maldivica) shell with metal chain
    Origin: Likely Persia (Iran) or the Indian subcontinent
    Date: 19th century
    Dimensions: 205 × 135 × 100 mm
    Weight: 324 g

    This begging bowl (kashkul) is crafted from the shell of a Coco de Mer (Lodoicea maldivica) seed, a rare and symbolic material historically associated with mysticism and exotic origins. The natural curvature of the shell has been hollowed and smoothed for functional use, preserving its organic ridged texture on the exterior. Metal rings are affixed at both ends, supporting a linked chain handle, allowing the bowl to be carried or hung.

    The kashkul was traditionally used by Sufi dervishes as a symbol of humility and asceticism, carried as a vessel for alms and spiritual offerings. The use of Coco de Mer for such objects was particularly esteemed due to its rarity, as the seed was believed to possess mystical properties and was highly valued in Indian Ocean trade networks.

    • Exotic and Sacred Material—Coco de Mer was once considered a fruit from an underwater tree, enhancing its mystical reputation.
    • Mystical Associations – In Sufi thought the empty bowl symbolizes detachment from material life and openness to divine sustenance.
    • Trade and Status – Such bowls were often prized possessions of high-ranking Sufi masters, symbolizing spiritual authority and renunciation of worldly wealth.

    While many kashkuls were crafted from metal (bronze, brass, or silver) and intricately decorated with Persian calligraphy and floral motifs, those made from Coco de Mer were rarer and more valued. The organic curves of the seed naturally complemented the aesthetic and spiritual function of the vessel, making it a highly desirable object.

    This piece represents a rare intersection of natural rarity, spiritual tradition, and craftsmanship, making it a notable example of historical Sufi material culture.

    See Coco de Mer Seed (Lodoicea maldivica) [VO-0474.2024] in this collection.

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    Origin: Seychelles, endemic to Praslin and Curieuse Islands
    Weight: 812 g
    Dimensions: 210 × 215 × 135 mm
    Condition: Naturally aged, with a dark, textured surface and visible patina

    This Coco de Mer seed, also known as the double coconut, features its characteristic bilobed shape with a deep central groove resembling the human form. The dark brown to black surface exhibits natural striations, a fibrous texture, and a slightly glossy patina. Specks of residue and natural imperfections indicate age and environmental exposure.

    One side presents a narrower, well-defined cleft, while the opposite side is broader and more rounded, emphasizing its unique form and symmetry. The seed's dense, heavy structure aligns with the species’ reputation as the largest and heaviest seed in the plant kingdom.

    Native exclusively to the Seychelles, the Coco de Mer was historically surrounded by mystical associations, once believed to be a fruit from an underwater tree. This specimen has been naturally preserved, showcasing the organic beauty and rarity of the species.

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    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [初代豊国] (Japanese, 1769–1825)

    Signed: Toyokuni ga [豊国画]

    Publisher: Kojimaya Jūbei [小嶋屋重兵衛] (Japanese, c. 1797–1869); seal [十]; Marks 06-014 | 264a

    Date-Aratame Seal: 1822 (Bunsei 5, 文政五年)

    Media: Print (Uchiwa-e, うちわ絵, fan print); 223 × 250 mm

    Actor: Onoe Kikugorō III [三代目 尾上菊五郎] (Japanese, 1784–1849); other names: Onoe Baikō III (尾上梅幸), Ōkawa Hashizō I (大川橋蔵初代), Onoe Matsusuke II (二代目尾上松助), Onoe Eizaburō I (初代尾上栄三郎)

    Half-length, three-quarter-view portrait of Onoe Kikugorō III, depicted without stage makeup. The actor wears a kimono patterned with plum blossoms (梅, ume), symbolising perseverance and longevity. A neck scarf with a 格子 (kōshi) pattern is visible, and he holds a folding fan (扇, ōgi) decorated with chrysanthemums (菊, kiku).

    Above his head is the Onoe family crest (mon), embracing oak leaves on layered fans. This emblem, known as the crest of the Otowaya line, commemorates a shogunal gift of rice cakes wrapped in oak leaves, placed on a fan, and presented to Onoe Kikugorō I.

    The background features a radiating red-line pattern, possibly representing the bamboo structure of an uchiwa fan. The absence of kumadori (歌舞伎隈取, kabuki makeup) suggests that the actor is not portrayed in a specific role.

    In 1822, Onoe Kikugorō III performed at Kawarazaki-za before month 11 and at Ichimura-za and Nakamura-za afterwards.

    The print has been backed for preservation with a sheet of paper featuring calligraphy, likely contemporary to the print itself. The backing paper appears to have been repurposed, a common historical practice in the Edo period, where discarded documents or manuscripts were reused to reinforce delicate prints.

    Kunisada portrayed the same actor in 1815 as Rokusaburō, the Carpenter (Daiku Rokusaburō).

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    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [初代豊国] (Japanese, 1769–1825) Signed: Toyokuni ga [豊国画] Publisher: Iseya Sōemon [伊勢屋惣右衛門] (c. 1776 – November 1862); Marks 02-041 | 156a Gyōji Aratame Censor Seal: 行事改, 1810-18151 Media: Print (Uchiwa-e, うちわ絵, fan print), kira-zuri (きら摺り, mica printing); 222 × 250 mm

    Actor: Onoe Baikō III [三代目尾上梅幸] (Japanese, 1784–1849); Other names: Onoe Kikugorō III (尾上菊五郎), Ōkawa Hashizō I (大川橋蔵初代), Onoe Matsusuke II (二代目尾上松助), Onoe Eizaburō I (初代尾上栄三郎)

    Role: Konjin Chōgorō (金神長五郎) Play: Ku Kyōdai Shōbu Katabira (句兄弟菖蒲帷子) Theater: Nakamura-za (中村座), Edo, 1815 Half-length, three-quarter-view, facing to the left portrait of Onoe Baikō III as Konjin Chōgorō, in the play Ku Kyōdai Shōbu Katabira, staged at Nakamura-za in 1815. The actor wears a purple kimono with a plum blossom motif (梅, ume).

    A print from the Waseda University Tsubouchi Memorial Theatre Museum also depicts Onoe Baikō III as Konjin Chōgorō, showing him holding a box inscribed with 神金 (Kane no Kami). The name Konjin consists of the same kanji reading right to left (金神).

    Konjin Chōgorō is a legendary figure in Japanese folklore, renowned as a formidable sumo wrestler. His tales often depict him engaging in supernatural feats, such as vanquishing demons and showcasing extraordinary strength.

    In the realm of kabuki theatre, Konjin Chōgorō's character has been portrayed in various plays, though specific details about Ku Kyōdai Shōbu Katabira (句兄弟菖蒲帷子) remain unknown.

    Notes

    1. A certain confusion regarding the attribution of this print arises from the statement by Andreas Marks (Publishers, 2011, p. 488), which asserts that the gyōji aratame seal was used exclusively for fan prints between 1810 and 1814. However, it is known that Onoe Baikō III performed the role of Konjin Chōgorō at Nakamura-za in the 5th month of 1815. Marks also notes that the earliest known fan print bearing this seal dates to 1810; based on this new evidence, we may now consider the latest known instance to be the 5th month of 1815.

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    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [初代豊国] (Japanese, 1769–1825) Signed: Toyokuni ga [豊国画]. Publisher: Iseya Sōemon [伊勢屋惣右衛門] (c. 1776 – November 1862); Marks 02-041 | 156a Date-Aratame Seal: 1819 (Bunsei 2, 文政二年) Media: Print (Yakusha-e, 役者絵); 221 × 253 mm Play: Ume Yanagi Wakaba no Kagazome (梅柳若葉加賀染) Theater: Tamagawa-za (玉川座), Edo, May 1819 Role: Kurenaiya Okan (紅屋おかん) Actor: Segawa Kikunojō V [瀬川菊之丞] (Japanese, 1802–1832); Other name: Segawa Tamon I (瀬川多聞初代) Bust-length, three-quarter-view portrait of Segawa Kikunojō V as Kurenaiya Okan in the play Ume Yanagi Wakaba no Kagazome, staged at Tamagawa-za in May 1819. The male actor Segawa Kikunojō V performs an onnagata role, portraying a courtesan. She is depicted adjusting her elaborate shimadamage-style coiffure, fixing a kanzashi (簪, hairpin) while holding onkotogami (御懲紙, tissue paper) in her mouth. The onkotogami was traditionally used for intimate hygiene, suggesting that the scene represents a moment after encountering a client. Her inner kimono is safflower-dyed and has a hemp leaf pattern (麻の葉, asa no ha). The top half of the background features a giant golden carp (鯉, koi), a recurring motif in this pair of prints often associated with strength, perseverance, and kabuki’s aragoto style. This print forms a pair with the portrait of Ichikawa Danjūrō VII as Yushima no Sankichi [SVJP-0439.2025], but no conclusive information is available regarding the relationship between their characters. The carp also alludes to Boys' Day (Tango no Sekku, 端午の節句), celebrated on May 5th each year.
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    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [初代豊国] (Japanese, 1769–1825) Signed: Toyokuni ga [豊国画]. Publisher: Iseya Sōemon [伊勢屋惣右衛門] (c. 1776 – November 1862); Marks 02-041 | 156a Date-Aratame Seal: 1819 (Bunsei 2, 文政二年) Media: Print (Yakusha-e, 役者絵); 221 x 253 mm

    Actor: Ichikawa Danjūrō VII [七代目市川團十郎] (Japanese, 1791–1859); Other names: Ichikawa Ebizō V (五代目市川海老蔵), Ichikawa Hakuen II (二代目市川白猿), Ichikawa Shinnosuke I (初代市川新之助).

    Role: Yushima no Sankichi (ゆしまの三吉) Play: Ume Yanagi Wakaba no Kagazome (梅柳若葉加賀染) Theater: Tamagawa-za (玉川座), Edo, May 1819 Bust-length, three-quarter-view portrait of Ichikawa Danjūrō VII as Yushima no Sankichi, in the play Ume Yanagi Wakaba no Kagazome, staged at Tamagawa-za in May 1819. The actor is depicted with his arms crossed over his chest, holding a pipe (kiseru, 煙管) in his right hand. The upper half of the background features a giant golden carp (, koi), symbolizing Boys' Day (Tango no Sekku) (端午の節句), celebrated on May 5th each year. This print forms a pair with the portrait of Kabuki actor Segawa Kikunojō V as Kurenaiya Okan [SVJP-0440.2025], but no conclusive information is available regarding the relationship between their characters.
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    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [初代豊国] (Japanese, 1769–1825)

    Publisher: Iseya Sōemon [伊勢屋惣右衛門] (c. 1776 – November 1862); Marks 02-041 | 156a

    Date-Aratame Seal: Bunsei 1 (文政元年, 1818)

    Media: Print (Yakusha-e, 役者絵); 223 x 250 mm

    Actor: Bandō Mitsugorō III [三代目 坂東 三津五郎] (Japanese, 1775–1831); also known as Bandō Minosuke I, Morita Kanjirō II, Bandō Mitahachi I, Bandō Minosuke I, Bandō Mitahachi I.

    Role: Anno Heiemon [安の平右衛門], also known as Anno Heibei [安の平兵衛].

    Play: Shiire Zome Karigane Gomon [仕入染雁金五紋] (しいれぞめかりがねごもん), staged in May 1818 at Nakamuraza Theatre in Edo (modern-day Tokyo).

    Bust-length, three-quarter-view portrait of actor Bandō Mitsugorō III as Anno Heibei, one of the gonin otoko [五人男]—a group of five chivalrous thieves. The actor is dressed in a red and purple robe, with a golden mon (family crest) on the shoulders, displaying the character 安 (An), which, in this case, represents the first ideogram in the name of his role. A shakuhachi (尺八), a traditional Japanese end-blown bamboo flute, is secured on his back.

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    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貴] a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代歌川豐国] (Japanese, 1786–1865)

    Publisher: unknown (Ichi-To, 未詳); Marks 05-012 | U085a; seal (一、ト). Date-aratame seal: Bunsei 5 (文政五年, 1822). Media: Fan print (Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e, 合別横絵団扇絵); 234 × 264 mm. Actor: Matsumoto Kōshirō V [五代相本幸四郎] (Japanese, 1764–1838); other names: Ichikawa Komazō III [市川高麻蔵], Ichikawa Sumizō I [市川寿美蔵]. Role: Hanakawado no Sukeroku [花川戸の助六]. Play: Sukeroku sakura no futae obi [助六桜の二重帯].

    This bust-length portrait depicts kabuki actor Matsumoto Kōshirō V in the role of Hanakawado no Sukeroku under a vast umbrella, in a three-quarter view, facing right, with his fist firmly clenched, and with an expression of intensity and determination. His protuberant nose is accentuated, a defining feature of Matsumoto Kōshirō V. The actor wears a black outer robe adorned with stylized peonies (牡丹, botan), a floral motif symbolizing strength, nobility, and elegance—qualities that define both the Sukeroku character and Kōshirō V’s acting style. The print belongs to the yakusha-e (役者絵, "actor print") genre, celebrating kabuki stars of the Edo period. The artist's signature, publisher’s seal, and censor’s seal are written on the umbrella. Play Sukeroku sakura no futae obi was staged in March 1822 (Bunsei 5) at Kawarazaki Theater (歌川戸室) in Edo (Tokyo). In this version of the Sukeroku narrative, the protagonist is revealed to be Jirō Suketoshi of Kyoto [京の次郎祐俊], a nobleman in disguise. Like other Sukeroku adaptations, the story centres on themes of chivalry, revenge, and romantic rivalry in Edo’s pleasure quarters. Another Kunisada's portraits of Matsumoto Kōshirō V as Sukeroku, in Ōban format:

    The History of Sukeroku in Kabuki Theater

    The play Sukeroku (English title Sukeroku: Flower of Edo), originally titled Hana Yakata Aigo Zakura (花館愛護櫻), premiered in the 3rd lunar month of 1713 at Yamamuraza in Edo. The script was written by Tsuuchi Han'emon (津打半右衛門) under the guidance of Tsuuchi Jihē II (津打治兵衛, 1679–1760). The inaugural performance featured Ichikawa Danjūrō II as Sukeroku, Tamazawa Rin'ya as Agemaki, Ikushima Shingorô as the shirozake seller (白酒売り) Shinbē, and Yamanaka Heikurô I as Ikyū. Three years later, in 1716, Tsuuchi Jihē II revised the play, integrating it into the well-known Soga brothers' revenge tale. In this adaptation, Sukeroku, Agemaki, and Shinbē were revealed to be Soga Gorō Tokimune, the courtesan Kewaizaka no Shōshō, and Soga Jūrō Sukenari, respectively. This revised version was staged at Nakamuraza in the 2nd lunar month of 1716, with Ichikawa Danjūrō II reprising the role of Sukeroku, joined by Nakamura Takesaburô I (Agemaki), Mimasuya Sukejûrô I (Shinbē), Sodeoka Masanosuke II (Soga’s mother Mankō), and Ôtani Hiroemon I (Ikyū). Over time, Sukeroku became closely associated with the Ichikawa Danjūrō acting lineage, captivating Edo audiences and securing its place in the kabuki repertoire. Though traditionally performed by members of the Naritaya guild, the role of Sukeroku was occasionally played by actors from outside the Ichikawa family. The play was later staged under the title Sukeroku Yukari no Edo Zakura for the first time in the 4th lunar month of 1782 at Ichimuraza, with Ichimura Uzaemon IX portraying the titular role. Comparison to Toyokuni I’s 1816 Print Kunisada’s portrait can be viewed as a homage to his mentor, Utagawa Toyokuni I [初代歌川豊国] (1769–1825), whose earlier 1816 bust-length portrait of Iwai Hanshirō V [岩井半四郎] as Sukeroku (published by Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎]) shares a similar composition and dramatic pose. While Matsumoto Kōshirō V’s portrayal (Kunisada, 1822) emphasizes power and masculinity through the peony motif, Iwai Hanshirō V’s 1816 version (Toyokuni I) reflects grace and refinement, featuring a kimono adorned with irises (菖蒲, shōbu)—a flower symbolizing purity and elegance. Additionally, the word shōbu (iris) is a homophone for 尚武, meaning "martial spirit", subtly reinforcing Sukeroku’s strength beneath his stylish exterior. These contrasts highlight the differences in kabuki acting styles—with Kōshirō V specializing in strong, heroic roles and Hanshirō V excelling in onnagata (female-role) performances.
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    Peonies (Shakuyaku) [芍薬] Series: Flower-Colored Papers (Hana Shikishi) [花色紙] Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi [歌川 國芳] (Japanese, 1798–1861) Signature: Chō-ō-rō Kuniyoshi ga (朝櫻楼 國芳 ) Publisher: Kojimaya Jūbei [小島屋 十兵衛] (Japanese, 1797 – 1869); seal 十, Marks 06-014 | 264a Date/Censorship Approval: Nanushi seal Yoshimura (吉村) for Yoshimura Gentarō (吉村 源太郎), VI/1843–XI/1846. Medium: Rigid fan print (Aiban Yoko-e Uchiwa-e, 合判横絵 団扇絵), 222 x 284 mm.

    Interpretation of the Inscription in the Floral Cartouche

    • 花色紙 (Hana Shikishi)"Flower-Colored Paper" or "Decorative Shikishi Paper with Floral Motifs"
    • 芍薬 (Shakuyaku)"Peony", a flower symbolizing prosperity, beauty, and romance in Japanese culture
    • 団扇絵 (Uchiwa-e)"Round Fan Illustration" or "Picture on an Uchiwa (rigid fan)"

    Description & Symbolic Analysis

    This print, part of the Hana Shikishi (Flower-Colored Papers) series, depicts a woman washing a basin after brushing her teeth. She is positioned behind an indigo-colored folding screen, adorned with a repeating pattern of distant pines, presented in reverse printing technique (wyabori, 捺ぼり). The screen is a visual separator, adding depth and an intimate atmosphere to the scene. The woman is portrayed in a three-quarter view, facing left, her face delicately contoured. She is dressed in a safflower-dyed kimono (furisode, 振袖) featuring an asanoha (麻の葉, hemp leaf) shibori pattern, a motif often associated with purity and protection. Over this, she wears an outer garment decorated with an indigo bamboo motif, symbolizing strength and resilience. Additionally, the garment features:
    • Double gourd (瓢箪, hyōtan) symbolises longevity, fertility, and good fortune.
    • Strips of paper resembling “next-morning letters” (kinuginu no fumi, 衣衣の文) – These evoke romantic correspondence or the written wishes of the Tanabata festival.
    • Spools or reels of thread (chikiri, 糸巻き) – A motif reminiscent of Tanabata festival themes, often linked to the celestial lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi. The phonetic pun with chigiri (契り, vow or romantic promise) reinforces themes of marriage, fate, and lifelong bonds.
    This alludes to the famous poem from the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu: 契りきな かたみに袖を しぼりつつ 末の松山 波越さじとは (Chigiriki na, katami ni sode o, shibori tsutsu, Sue no Matsuyama, nami koso sashi to wa) “Did we not vow, through tears, our sleeves wet with grief, that the waves would never break over the tip of Matsuyama?” This poem by Minamoto no Toshiyori (c. 1055–1129) expresses a promise of eternal love, comparing it to the unshakable Matsuyama mountain, which remains firm despite the waves.

    Adornment & Hairstyling

    Her elaborate hairstyle features a red hair tie (musubi, 結び), signifying youth and romantic allure. It is further adorned with:
    • Golden kogai (笄) – A decorative hairpin, often used by courtesans or high-ranking women.
    • Tama kanzashi (玉簪) – A ball-tipped ornamental hairpin, reinforcing her refined status.
    These elements suggest she could be either a courtesan (oiran, 花魁) or an upper-class woman.

    Objects in the Scene & Their Symbolism

    The woman is holding a traditional Japanese toothbrush (fusa-yōji, ふさ楊枝) in her right hand, while pouring out water from the basin after brushing her teeth. This act symbolizes purity and preparation for intimacy. To her right, an ornate lacquered writing box (suzuribako, 硯箱) is placed near an inkstone (硯, suzuri). This object could also be interpreted as a dreamstone (梦石, mèng shí), a scholar’s object associated with nostalgia, love, or secret communication.

    Context in Ukiyo-e Tradition

    Tooth brushing was uncommon in bijin-ga (美人画, "beautiful woman prints"). Ukiyo-e frequently depicted women engaging in personal grooming rituals, reflecting ideals of elegance and self-care in Edo-period culture.
    Two additional fan prints from the Hana Shikishi series have been identified and can be found at the Kuniyoshi Project website:
    1. Morning Glory (Asagao, 朝顔)
    2. Clematis (Tessen, 鉄線)

    Morning Glory (Asagao, 朝顔)

    Clematis (Tessen, 鉄線)

    These prints, like Peonies (Shakuyaku), emphasize seasonal beauty and feminine refinement, themes central to Kuniyoshi’s bijin-ga oeuvre.
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    Kabuki actor Iwai Hanshiro V, in the role of Shirai Gonpachi, stands under a willow tree (yanagi, ) to read a letter from the courtesan Komurasaki of the Miuraya [三浦屋小紫]. In this letter, Komurasaki laments their unfortunate love. This is a scene from the kabuki play The Floating World's Pattern and Matching Lightning Bolts (Ukiyozuka hiyoku no inazuma) [浮世柄比翼稲妻] written by Tsurya Namboku IV [鶴屋南北]; it was played for the first time in March 1823 at Ichimura Theatre [市村座] in Edo. This play was later divided into two individual pieces: Saya-ate [鞘当] and Fuwa [不破]. On the shoulders of the actor's garment is a character 井 in a circle — both names, Iwai 岩井 and Shirai 白井, use this character.

    "Ukiyozuka Hiyoku no Inazuma" is a kabuki play in nine acts, written by Tsuruya Nanboku IV. It premiered in Bunsei 6 (1823) at the Ichimura-za theatre in Edo.

    The play includes two particularly famous scenes:

    • "Suzugamori no ba" (The Scene at Suzugamori), which portrays the episode of Banzuiin Chōbei and Shirai Gonpachi
    • "Yoshiwara Nakanochō no ba" (The Scene at Yoshiwara Nakanochō), which depicts the story of Nagoya Sanza and Fuwa Banzaemon

    These scenes have been frequently performed under the well-known titles "Gozonji Suzugamori" (A Well-Known Suzugamori) and "Sayaate" (The Scabbard Clash).

    More information about the play and the real story behind it can be found at Lyon Collection. Actor: Iwai Hanshirō V [岩井半四郎] (Japanese, 1776 – 1847); other names: Iwai Tojaku, Iwai Kumesaburō I. Role: Shirai Gonpachi [白井権八] Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [歌川豊国] (1769–1825). Signed: Toyokuni ga [豊国画]. Publisher: Enshūya Matabei [遠州屋又兵衛] (Enterprise, active c. 1768 – 1881); seal: “to” (ト) under roof (Marks 01-031 | 057a). Date-aratame censor seal: 未改, Bunsei 6 (1823). Media: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e 団扇絵), 233 x 260 mm.
  • NEW

    Title: Kabuki Actor Ichikawa Sadanji I as Mannenya Kamei Tarō
    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada III (Baido Kunimasa) [Japanese, 1848–1920]
    Signature: Baidō Kunimasa hitsu (梅堂國政筆)
    Actor: Ichikawa Sadanji I (市川左団次, also known as Ichikawa Shōjaku I, Ichikawa Koyone, Ichikawa Tatsuzō) [Japanese, 1842–1904]
    Role: Mannenya Kamei Tarō (万年屋家名太郎)
    Play: Unidentified
    Publisher: Shimōsaya Masukichi (下総屋升吉)
    Publisher’s Address: Asakusa, Kurofune-chō (浅草 黒舩)
    Date: [明治十三年三月] Meiji 13 (1880), 3rd month
    Medium: Uchiwa-e (団扇絵, fan print), ink and colour on paper, 245 × 282 mm

    This uchiwa-e (fan print) by Utagawa Kunisada III (also known as Utagawa Kunimasa IV) portrays the kabuki actor Ichikawa Sadanji I in the role of Mannenya Kamei Tarō. The figure is depicted in a dramatic stance, dressed in a striking blue kimono adorned with fish and wave motifs, suggesting a maritime or festival connection. He carries a large basket supported by a fabric strap around his neck, filled with small toy fish attached to sticks, along with round objects that could be festival sweets or miniature decorations. He holds one of these toy fish-on-a-stick items in his right hand, possibly demonstrating it as part of a vendor's performance.

    The background is a bold, deep red, contrasting with the detailed rendering of the actor’s expression and costume. The print was published in 1897 (Meiji 30) by Shimōsaya Masukichi, a publisher based in Asakusa, Kurofune-chō. Though the exact play remains unidentified, the composition captures a moment from a kabuki performance where street vendors and festival sellers were often featured as comic or supporting characters in Edo-period narratives.

    This work exemplifies the continuation of traditional kabuki actor portraiture into the Meiji period, reflecting both theatrical culture and popular printmaking traditions at the time.

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    A half-length portrait of a woman seated in an interior, winding red thread, dressed in a richly decorated kimono featuring intricate floral motifs in blue, green, and brown hues with a red underlayer. Her elaborately styled hair is adorned with a yellow comb and multiple hairpins. To her left is a partially visible wooden chest of drawers, to which a piece of red paper bearing calligraphy is affixed. A puppet or doll dressed in a patterned kimono with a striking red-painted face rests on her lap or a surface before her.

    An uncut fan print (aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e) entitled “Good tailoring” or “Good sewing [仕立ものよし] (shitate monoyoshi)” from the series "It’s an Auspicious Day to…" [最上吉日つくし] (Saijō [no] kichijitsu tsukushi).

    Artist: Utagawa Kuniyoshi [歌川 國芳] (Japanese, 1798 – 1861).

    Signature: Ichiyûsai Kuniyoshi giga (一勇斎 國芳戯画, playfully drawn by Ichiyûsai Kuniyoshi).

    Publisher: Enshūya Matabei [遠州屋又兵衛] (Enterprise, active c. 1768 – 1881); seal: "to" (ト) under roof (Marks 01-031 | 057a). Nanushi seal Watari (渡) for Watanabe Shōemon, VI/1842-V 1c/1846. Media: Fan print (uchiwa-e, 団扇絵), 224 x 290 mm. Reference: (1) Kuniyoshi project; (2) Tokyo Museum Digital Archive [Thanks to Horst Greabner]
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    An uncut fan print depicting a carp (koi) swimming amid aquatic plants against a deep blue background. Artist: unknown/unsigned, possibly Katsushika Hokusai [葛飾 北斎] (Japanese, 1760 – 1849). Publisher: Enshūya Matabei [遠州屋又兵衛] (Japanese, fl. c. 1768 – 1881) Date: No date seal, no censor seal (privately printed?) Media: Fan print (uchiwa-e, 団扇絵), 224 x 290 mm. Similar subject:    

    Katsushika TAITO II (fl. c. 1810-53)

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    Artist: Utagawa Sadahide [歌川貞秀] (Japanese, 1807 – 1879). Signed: Gountei Sadahide ga [五雲亭貞秀画] (Picture by Gountei Sadahide). Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, c. 1815 – 1869); seal in a circle Published: 1830s – no date seal, no censor seal (privately printed?) Media: Fan print (uchiwa-e, 団扇絵), 235 x 298 mm Inscriptions in kanji with furigana readings: Top right: "The Handy Type" (手があり相, te ga ari sō) – A composed woman adjusting her clothing. Bottom right: "Images of Manners" (風ぞくが, fūzokuga) – Possibly referring to depictions of etiquette or courtesan behaviour. The additional phrase 宵闇 (yoyami) 相 (sō) suggests a connection to nighttime activities. Centre: "The Proper Type" (きまり相, kimari sō) – A well-dressed woman seated elegantly, signifying a composed demeanour. Top left: Unclear reading (ほう☆し そう or ☆ほし そう) – Possibly related to 奉仕 (hōshi, "service" or "devotion"), implying attentiveness or subservience. Bottom left: "The Popular Type" (はやり相, hayari sō) – A fashionable woman wearing a partially veiled head covering, reflecting contemporary trends. Thanks to Horst Graebner.
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    Paperback volume with quarter red cloth backing 257 x 185 mm, black lettering in English and Japanese to front, red seals fac-simile to front and back; pp. [6] 1-6, 2-6 plates verso only, 7-26 [4] 1-66 [2]  7-88 plates verso only [2], some plates in colour with captioned tissue guards, incl. frontispiece memorial portrait of Utagawa Hiroshige [歌川 広重] a.k.a. Andō Hiroshige [安藤 広重] (Japanese, 1797 – 1858). Limited edition of 275 copies, this is copy № 254. Title-page: CATALOGUE | OF | THE MEMORIAL EXHIBITION | OF | HIROSHIGE'S WORKS | on the 60th Anniversary of His Death. | {red diamond} | Compiled and Published | BY | S. WATANABE. | (Ukiyoye Association) | TOKYO. | 1918. || Author: Shōzaburō Watanabe [渡辺 庄三郎] (Japanese, 1885 – 1962) Five fan prints: № 173. REFLECTED MOON ON THE SUMIDA. № 174. TOTO SHINAGAWA NO KEI. Shinagawa Beach, Yedo. № 179. ZUSÕ HAKONEYAMA YAKO NO ZU. Night Ascent of Hakone Pass. Published by Dansendo. № 180. TSUKI NO SANKEI. Beauties in a boat enjoying evening cool at Ryōgoku, from Three Moonlight Scenes. Published by Dansendo. № 182. SUMIDAGAWA HASHIBA WATASHI VUKI NO KEI. A Ferry Boat at a Sumida River Landing in Snow.
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    Hardcover volume 290 x 225 mm, bound in blue cloth with red lettering to front and spine, pictorial endpapers, in glossy black pictorial dust jacket, pp.: [1-7] 8-126 [2], profusely illustrated in colour. Title-page: GERARD INGOLD | Les boules | presse-papiers | et les sulfures | DES CRISTALLERIES | DE SAINT LOUIS | {publisher’s device Hermé} || Author: Ingold, Gerard (French, 1922 – 2011)
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    Rigid uchiwa fan, ink and colour on paper. Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō VIII in a crimson red robe, on his knees in a ceremonial bowing position to the audience during a formal stage announcement before the performance (Kojo, 口上). The fan has been used, dismounted from the frame, and laid onto Japanese paper, hence the rib marks. Painted c. 1850. Ichikawa Danjūrō VIII [市川団十郎] (Japanese, 1823 – 1854); other names: Ichikawa Ebizō VI, Ichikawa Shinnosuke II. Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Toyokuni hitsu [豊国筆] with red toshidama seal. Dimensions: 280 x 325 mm Reference: Ichikawa Danjūrō VIII by Utagawa Kuniyoshi 歌川国芳, 1855.  
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    Ichikawa Danjūrō VII [市川団十郎] and Iwai Kumesaburō II [岩井粂三郎] as Kinugawa Iemon [絹川伊右衛門] and Tōfuya Kasane [とうふやヶさね], resp., in kabuki play Banzei okuni kabuki [万歳阿国歌舞妓], performed at Ichimura Theatre [市村座] on March, 21, 1827. References: Kunisada Project; Waseda University. Ichikawa Danjūrō VII [市川団十郎] (Japanese, 1791 – 1859); other names: Ichikawa Ebizō V, Ichikawa Hakuen II, Ichikawa Shinnosuke I. Iwai Hanshirō VI [[岩井半四郎] (Japanese, 1799 – 1836); other names: Iwai Hanshirō VI, Iwai Kumesaburō II, Iwai Hisajirō I, Baiga (poetry name), Shūka (poetry name). Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Gototei Kunisada ga [五渡亭國貞画]. Publisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, fl. 1790s-1860s). Date seal and aratame seal: boar (亥), Bunsei 10 – 1827. Untrimmed fan print (aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e), 235 x 270 mm. Ichimura-za Kabuki Playbill (Tsuji banzuke):    
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    Half-length portrait of a beautiful young woman wearing a chrysanthemum-patterned green kimono, face directed 3/4 to the right, holding her hands together and fingers spread, arranging the hairpins in her elaborate hairdo; garments of different colours and pattern designs on the background. Series: The taste of the new type of woman (Shingata bijin konomi) [新形美人好]. Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Kōchōrō Kunisada ga [香朝楼國貞画] in a yellow double-gourd cartouche. No publisher seal. No censor/date seal. Media: Untrimmed fan print (Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e), 228 x 305 mm.
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    Series: The taste of the new type of woman (Shingata bijin konomi) [志んかた美人好]. Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞], a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代 歌川 豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). Signed: Kōchōrō Kunisada ga [香朝楼國貞画] in a red double-gourd cartouche. No publisher seal. No censor/date seal. Media: Untrimmed fan print (Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e), 228 x 302 mm.