One Hundred Aspects of the Moon - Considered his masterwork, Yoshitoshi's series One Hundred Aspects of the Moon features one hundred oban size woodblocks, published between 1885 and 1892. These quiet and reflective prints, beautifully composed and drawn, feature subjects from traditional Japanese and Chinese history and legend, rendered with great sensitivity and emotion. The moon appears in all but a few prints, providing a unifying motif for the series.

Yoshitoshi's innovative designs for the Moon series are often elegantly spare, with simple backgrounds that focus attention on the human figure. He combines the western influences of realism and perspective with qualities from traditional Japanese and Chinese painting, such as the emphasis on calligraphic brushstroke. The figures are carefully drawn with beautiful linework, conveying a real sense of individual character, gesture, and emotion. Special printing techniques such as embossing and burnishing add a sumptuous touch where appropriate, but simple subjects are conveyed in a likewise manner, no less carefully observed.

Prints from the series were released singly or in groups every few months, with the final image completed shortly before Yoshitoshi's death. The series proved tremendously popular, with patrons lining up to purchase the new releases as soon as they became available. Today, One Hundred Aspects of the Moon remains Yoshitoshi's most well-known work, characterized by his artistry, compassion, and sensitivity in portraying the human experience.

Hazy Night Moon - A fantastic 100 Moon print and one of the series masterworks, this incredible piece depicting the ghost of the renegade priest Kumasaka Chohan. Kumasaka was killed during a thwarted attempt to steal from a gold merchant at an inn in Akasaka. The ghost begins to appear to a Buddhist priest in the Akasaka area. In this incredible design, the ghost stands dressed in a priest hat, a fierce mask, and elaborate robes. His trousers bear the designs of thunderbolts. The ghost strikes a dramatic and tense pose with glaring eyes, carrying a huge pole arm. A terrific print from the 100 Moon series and a piece highly sought after by collectors. Our beautiful original with excellent color as shown, not at all faded, and fine detail. A wonderful choice for the discerning collector.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 8 5/8" x 12 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Backed with thin old paper. Some light rubbing and soiling. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.