//Early 19th century
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    Jō and Uba – Spirits of the Paired Pines of Takasago and Sumiyoshi Greeting the Rising Sun on New Year Morning / Fan print, 1847-8.

    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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    Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III). Conversation Under the Full Moon (The Tale of Genji) / Fan print, 1849-50.

    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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    Utagawa Toyokuni II (a.k.a. Toyoshige ). Ichikawa Danjūrō VII and two kabuki actors as anthropomorphic bats. / Fan print, 1829.

    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni II [歌川豊国二代] a.k.a. Toyoshige [豊重] (Japanese, (1777 – 1835) Signed: 豊国狂筆 (Toyokuni kyō-hitsu, "mad brush of Toyokuni") Publisher: Maru-Jū (丸重), seal Jū (重), Marks reference 08-079 | U190a (1826–1829, only on fan prints) Censor Seal: Kiwame + Bunsei 12 (Year of the Ox [丑], 1829) Media: Uchiwa-e (fan print), color woodblock print, 230 × 293 mm

    A fantastical kabuki-themed scene depicting three anthropomorphic bats, dressed in Edo-period costumes. The central figure, likely Ichikawa Danjūrō VII (市川團十郎七, 1791–1859), is distinguished by his costume featuring a gourd motif (瓢箪, hyōtan)—a symbol closely linked to the Ichikawa family. He wears two swords, further identifying him as a kabuki hero, and carries a sake flask marked with what appears to be the publisher's emblem. His raised arm (or wing?) suggests a dramatic action, possibly striking or threatening the bat figure on the left, who recoils in response.

    The two side bats, also dressed in patterned kimono, display expressions contrasting with the central figure—one appearing startled, while the other remains cheerful. The oxidized lead-orange pigment used in the lower portions of their wings suggests depth and texture.

    This print reflects Danjūrō VII’s association with both the bat (蝙蝠, kōmori) and the double gourd. Bats were considered lucky symbols due to their resemblance to the character of "good fortune" (福, fuku), and Danjūrō VII often incorporated bat motifs into his stage costumes. The Ichikawa family's crest, the mimasu (三升, "three squares"), was more commonly used, but the double gourd and bat imagery appeared in promotional materials, reinforcing his theatrical identity.
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    Utagawa Toyokuni I. Portrait of Onoe Kikugorō III without Stage Makeup / Fan print, 1822.

    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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    Utagawa Toyokuni I. Kabuki actor Onoe Baikō III as Konjin Chōgorō / Fan print, 1815.

    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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    Utagawa Toyokuni I. Kabuki actor Segawa Kikunojō V as Kurenaiya Okan / Fan print, 1819.

    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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    Utagawa Toyokuni I. Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō VII as Yushima no Sankichi / Fan print, 1819.

    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 (鯉, 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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    Utagawa Toyokuni I. Kabuki actor Bandō Mitsugorō III as Anno Heibei / Fan print, 1818.

    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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    Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III). Kabuki actor Matsumoto Kōshirō V as Hanakawado no Sukeroku / Fan print, 1822.

    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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    Utagawa Toyokuni I. Actor Iwai Hanshiro V in the role of Shirai Gonpachi / Fan print, 1823.

    Kabuki actor Iwai Hanshiro V, in the role of Shirai Gonpachi, stands under a willow tree (yanagi, 柳) 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.
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    Katsukawa Shun’ei. Sumo Wrestlers / Fan print, c. 1800.

    Artist: Katsukawa Shun'ei [勝川 春英] (Japanese, 1762 – 1819) Signature: Shun'ei ga [春英画] Dimensions: Aiban yoko-e uchiwa-e, 230 x 268 mm. Censor seal: absent (probably because before 1810). Publisher: Iseya Sōemon – 板元,上, Marks 21-216|156g: Hanmoto, Ue. A blue seal in the middle of the print.
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    Utagawa Toyokuni I. Tenth lunar month, from the series ‘Fashionable twelve months’ / Fan print, 1822.

    Title: Tenth lunar month (Shoto no zu) [初冬の図]. Series: Fashionable Twelve Months [今様十二ヶ月] (Imayo juni-kagetsu). Another version of the translation: Modern Beauties of Twelve Months. Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [歌川豊国] (1769–1825). Signed: Toyokuni ga [豊国画] and sealed with toshidama. Pubisher: Ibaya Senzaburō [伊場屋仙三郎] (Japanese, 1815 – 1869), seal: Dansendō [伊場仙]. Date-kiwame seal: Ushi (ox), Bunsei 5 (1822). Size: double-sheet uncut fan print (aiban uchiwa-e), each 220 x 289 mm.
    Other five prints of this series: SVJP 0326.2020; SVJP-0362.2022; SVJP-0363.2022; SVJP-0364.2022; SVJP-0365.2022; SVJP-0379.2022.
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  • Utagawa Kunisada. Kabuki actors Seki Sanjūrō II as Nakano Tōbei L (top), Bandō Mitsugorō III as Miki Jūzaemon (left), and Matsumoto Kōshirō V as Akabori Mizuemon (right) / Fan print, 1817.

    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada, a.k.a. Toyokuni III (Japanese, 1786 – 1865) [歌川 国貞]. Publisher: Unidentified, Marks 01-033|U335a To-Chū [ト忠] Date-aratame seal: Bunka 14 (1817). Signed: Kunisada ga [国貞画]. Media: Fan print (uchiwa-e), 230 x 270 mm. Kabuki play Chūkō shōbu-gatana [忠孝菖蒲刀] performed at the Nakamura Theater in Tokyo (Edo) in 5/1817. Actor Seki Sanjūrō II [関三十郎], a.k.a. Seki Utasuke I; Nakamura Utasuke; Arashi Sôtarô; Meijin Seki; Sekisan (Japanese, 1786 – 1839) as Nakano Tōbei [中野藤兵衛] – top. Actor Bandō Mitsugorō III [坂東三津五郎], a.k.a. Bandô Minosuke I, Morita Kanjirô II, Bandô Mitahachi I, Bandô Minosuke I, Bandô Mitahachi (Japanese, 1775 – 1831) I  as Miki Jūzaemon [三木十左衛門] – left. Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō V [松本幸四郎], a.k.a. Ichikawa Komazô III; Ichikawa Sumizô I (Japanese, 1764 – 1838) as Akabori Mizuemon [あかぼり水右衛門] – right. Reference images:  
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  • Convolute: Pélagie la sainte. — Paris, 1832-1889.

    Convolute: Pélagie la sainte. Quarter red buckram over marbled papers with brown gilt-lettered calf label to spine, 399 x 290 mm. Consists of: One blank leaf
    • Gérard de Nerval. Mémoires d'un parisien: Sainte-Pélagie, en. 1832. Published in L'Artiste : journal de la littérature et des beaux-arts 1841 (SER2,T7). L'ARTISTE, | JOURNAL DE LA LITTÉRATURE ET DES BEAUX-ARTS. | 2° Série. – Tome 6 (ms pencil 7 et 8) | {vignette signed M. ALOPHE} | PARIS. | AUX BUREAUX DE L'ARTISTE, RUE DE SEINE-SAINT-GERMAIN, 39 | 1840. (crossed out, ms pencil 1841) || Engraved title, h.t./imprint, t.p., pp. 251-256 (six leaves); p. 252-5:
    • Talon / Maison de Sainte-Pélagie November 18, 1822 (One leaf)
    • Maxime du Camp. Les prisons de Paris. Published in: Revue de deux mondes, 83, № 3 (1eroctobre 1869), pp. [598]-634 (17 leaves).
    • Philibert Audebrand. La Gazette de Sainte-Pélagie. Published in: L'Intermédiaire des chercheurs et curieux, № 518, 10 Dec 1889, p. 711. (Newspaper clip).
    Three blank leaves
    • Pélagie la Sainte 1889. Numero unique. Edité par les soins du Journal « la France » | SOUS LA DIRECTION DE M. PILLARD D'ARKAÏ || Title engraved on wood and hand-painted. Texts by Paul Adam, Paul Bonnetain, Simon Boubée, Léon Cladel, Camille Dreyfus, Ch. Gilbert-Martin, Victor Hugo, Camille Lemonnier, Maurice Mac-Nab, Louise Michel, Félix Pyat, Rachilde, Xavier Raspail, Jean Richepin, Henri Rochefort, Laurent Tailhade, Émile Zola, etc. Illustrations by Ch. Clérice, Ch. Gilbert-Martin, Alfred Le Petit, Eugène Rapp. Pp. 1-24 (12 leaves). Gallica: Pélagie la sainte, 1889 / [signé Pillard d'Arkaï]
    Two blank leaves Contributors: Maxime du Camp (French, 1822 – 1984) Marie-Alexandre Alophe (French, 1812 – 1883) Arkaï, Léo d' (French, 1869-19..?) Philibert Audebrand (French, 1815 – 1906) Eugène Rapp (French, 1863 – 1889)
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  • Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche / vol. 1-3 plus vol. of plates. — Vienna and Göttingen, 1809-1835.

    Three hardcover volumes, in-12mo, 16.2 x 10.6 cm each, uniformly bound in quarter brown cloth over marbled boards, all margins marbled, gilt lettering to spine; plus an oblong volume of similar binding, 24.5 x 39.5 cm, with 88 engraved plates by Riepenhausen after Hogarth (83 pp, unnumbered). Catalogue raisonné of William Hogarth's engravings, published by Carl Armbruster in Vienna and Dieterichsche Buchhandlung in Göttingen. A detailed explanation of Hogarth's prints divided in 14 parts. Vol. 1.
    1. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Erste Lieferung. Wien, 1818. Bey Chr. Kaulfuß und C. Armbruster. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [i-v] vi-xxxvi, [1-3] 4-136, plus engraved t.p.
    2. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Zweite Lieferung. Wien, 1818. Bey Chr. Kaulfuß und C. Armbruster. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [i-iii] iv-viii [2] 11-207 [1 blank], plus engraved t.p.
    3. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Dritte Lieferung. Wien, 1818. Bey Chr. Kaulfuß und C. Armbruster. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [i-iii] iv-vi [3] 10-215 [1 blank], plus engraved t.p.
    4. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Vierte Lieferung. Wien, 1818. Bey Chr. Kaulfuß und C. Armbruster. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [1-5] 6-180 [1 blank], plus engraved t.p.
    Vol. 2.
    1. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Fünste Lieferung. Wien, bey Carl Armbruster 1819. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [1-3] 4-144, plus engraved t.p.
    2. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Sechste Lieferung. Mit zufåßen nach den schriften der englischen Erflårer. Wien, bey Carl Armbruster 1819. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [i-iii] iv-x [2] 13-100, plus engraved t.p.
    3. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Siebente und achte Lieferung. Mit zufåßen nach den Schriften der englischen Erflårer. Wien, bey Carl Armbruster 1820. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [1-8] 9-191, plus engraved t.p.
    4. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten Copien derselben von Carl Rahl. Neunte und zehnte Lieferung. Mit zufåßen nach den Schriften der englischen Erflårer. Wien, bey Carl Armbruster 1823. Gedruckt bey Anton Strauß. [1-7] 8-168, plus engraved t.p.
    Vol. 3.
    1. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten aber vollständigen Copien derselben von E. Riepenhausen. Eilfte Lieferung mit zufåßen nach den schriften der englischen Erflårer. Göttingen in der Dieterichsche Buchhandlung 1809. [1-3] 4-81 [82 blank].
    2. C. G. Lichtenberg’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten aber vollständigen Copien derselben von E. Riepenhausen fortgefeßt vom Berausgeber der fechsten Lieferung mit Benußung der englischen Erflårer. Zwölfte Lieferung. Göttingen in der Dieterichsche Buchhandlung 1816. [i-iii] iv [1-3] 4-76.
    3. J. P. Lyser’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten aber vollständigen Copien derselben von E. Riepenhausen. Dreizehnte Lieferung Göttingen in der Dieterichsche Buchhandlung 1833. [i-v] vi-xii, [1-3] 4-117 [118].
    4. Dr. le Petit’s Ausführliche Erklärung der Hogarthischen Kupferstiche, mit verkleinerten aber vollständigen Copien derselben von E. Riepenhausen, Berausgeber Karl Gutzkow. Vierzehnte Lieferung. Göttingen in der Dieterichsche Buchhandlung 1835. [i-iii] iv-xvi, [1-3] 4-132.
    Vol. 4.: 88 plates on 83 unnumbered leaves. Contributors: George Christoph Lichtenberg (German, 1743 – 1799) Johann Peter Lyser (German, 1804 – 1870) Karl Ferdinand Gutzkow (German, 1811 – 1878) Ernst Ludwig Riepenhausen (German, 1762 – 1840) Christoph Friedrich von Pommer [Dr. le Petit] (German, 1787 – 1841) Carl Rahl [Karl Rahl] (Austrian, 1812 – 1865) Carl Armbruster (Austrian, fl. c.1830) Dieterichsche Buchhandlung (Göttingen) Johann Christian Dieterich (German, 1722 – 1800) Anton Strauß (Austrian, 1775 – 1827) William Hogarth (British, 1697 – 1764)
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  • Utagawa Toyokuni I. Two women / Fan print, 1823.

    Artist: Utagawa Toyokuni I [歌川豊国] (1769–1825). Pubisher: Enshūya Matabei (遠州屋又兵衛) (c. 1768 – 1881), seal name: Enmata [ 遠又]. Signed: Toyokuni ga [豊国画]. Date-aratame censor seal: 未改, Bunsei 6 (1823). Size: uchiwa-e; 233 x 262 mm. Ref: Israel Goldman. Japanese Prints, Paintings and Books / Catalogue 28, 2022: № 14.
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  • Jean de La Fontaine. Fables mises en vers / illustrations par Moreau le Jeune (2 vol. in 1). — Paris: Antoine-Augustin Renouard, 1795.

    Two 8vo volumes bound in one, 19 x 12.5 cm, in full mottled sheepskin with gilt-bordered boards, gilt decorated flat spine with gilt-lettered red and black calf labels, rebacked, marbled endpapers and edges, printed on wove paper, plates on thicker laid paper. Title-page: FABLES | MISES EN VERS | PAR J. DE LA FONTAINE. | TOME PREMIER (SECOND). | {medallion portrait} (printer’s device “PC”) | A PARIS, | CHEZ ANT. AUG. RENOUARD. | M. DCC. XCV. || Collation: Vol. 1: π2 (h.t./imprint, t.p. medallion portrait/blank), [1]-38 (Notice sur la vie…), 1-58 64 (Vie de la Fontaine, Épitre, Préface, Vie d’Ésope), [7]-148 156 χ3 (table); pagination [4] [i] ii-xlviii, [1] 2-234. Total 143 leaves (286 pages) plus 6 plates after Moreau le Jeune by Devilliers fratres (p. 112), E. De Ghendt (pp. 122 and 181), Jean Louis Delignon (p. 140), Delvaux (p. 197), and Ph. Trière (p. 219). Title medallion portrait of La Fontaine (G Rigault pinx. – C S Gaucher inc.) by Gaucher after Rigaud. Vol. 2: π2 1-158 164; pagination [4] [1] 2-247 [248 blank]. Total 126 leaves (252 pages) plus 6 plates after Moreau le Jeune by Devilliers fratres (p. 19), Villerey (pp. 37, 80, and 146), Bosq (p. 121), and Ph. Trière (p. 199). The book published in 1795 (An 3) supplemented with plates produced in 1811 and 1812 for Œuvres complèttes (sic) de Jean de la Fontaine published by Lefèvre in 1814. The reason for choosing this particular edition for someone's library shortly after 1814 was probably the absence of censorship in 1795. Catalogue raisonné: (1) Lewine [LIB-2538.2020] on p. 276 (Paris, chez Renouard, 1795, 2 vols., 8vo., medal portrait on first title, and 12 plates after Moreau by Delvaux, Bosq, Ghendt, Trière, and Villerey). (2) M.-J.-F. Mahérault. L' oeuvre de Moreau le Jeune : catalogue raisonné et descriptif avec notes iconographiques et bibliographiques. — Paris: A. Labitte, 1880. Contributors: Jean de La Fontaine (French, 1621–1695) – author. Jean-Michel Moreau le Jeune (French, 1741–1814) – artist. Hyacinthe Rigaud (French, 1659 – 1743) – artist. Antoine-Augustin Renouard (French, 1765 – 1853) – publisher. Pierre Causse (French, 1761 – 1834) – printer. Engravers: Charles Étienne Gaucher (French, 1741 – 1804) Etienne De Villiers [Devilliers, Devilliers fratres] (French, 1784 – after 1844) Emmanuel Jean Nepomucène de Ghendt (Flemish, worked in France, 1738 – 1815) Jean-Louis Delignon (French, 1755 – 1820) Rémi Henri Joseph Delvaux (French, 1748 – 1823) Philippe Trière (French, 1756 – c. 1815) Auguste Villerey (French, 1801 – 1846) Jean Bosq (French, fl. c. 1801 – 1844)
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  • Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III). Married woman blackening her teeth in a mirror / Fan print, ca. 1830.

    Artist: Utagawa Kunisada [歌川 国貞] a.k.a. Utagawa Toyokuni III [三代歌川豊国] (Japanese, 1786 – 1865). No publisher seal, no date or censor seal; probably a private printing. Signed: Kunisada ga [国貞画] in a red double gourd cartouche. Media: Untrimmed fan print (uchiwa-e), 231 x 294 mm, with the use of mica and black lacquer.    
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