Courtesan Jigoku, No. 43

by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Current Status

Courtesan Jigoku, No. 43 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Original Chikanobu (1838 - 1912) Japanese Woodblock Print
Courtesan Jigoku, No. 43

Series; Eastern Brocades, Day and Night Compared

Eastern Brocades, Day and Night Compared - Designed in 1886, Chikanobu's extraordinary "Eastern Brocade" series features a fantastic range of subjects, including brave warriors, eerie ghosts, timeless beauties, and famous figures from traditional tales of triumph and treachery. These beautiful images bring the history and legends of Japan to life with colorful characters and a wonderful attention to detail. Note the appealing compositions and fine printing in these Meiji era masterworks, many of which include deluxe treatments such as burnishing, embossing, or the addition of mica. These attractive designs are a nice choice to collect or display.

Courtesan Jigoku, No. 43 - An incredible original print by Yoshitoshi depicting the former courtesan Jigoku-dayu strolling at New Year's. She was converted to a religious life by Priest Ikkyu. He was most well known for holding a staff with a skull attached to remind New Year's Day revelers of the inevitability of death. Her kimono and those of her attendants are decorated with images of hell, including Emma, god of the underworld, and demons surrounded by flames. In the top image, the Priest Ikkyu is shown vomiting fish into the water after drinking too much wine. Wonderful embossed detail in the white kimono trim, the fly whisk, and the white background, which features a delicate cloth pattern.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Some light rubbing and soiling at edges. A few small holes repaired from reverse. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Courtesan Jigoku, No. 43 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)
Courtesan Jigoku, No. 43 by Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

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