Mirror of the Ages - Published in 1897, Chikanobu's beautiful series "Mirror of the Ages" celebrates the beauty and fashions of women of the past. Each print in this delightful series features a single portrait of a young beauty, always carefully and stylishly made up, wearing the traditional contemporary fashion of her time. In the rectangular inset above the figure, Chikanobu has drawn a scene from the same time period suggesting a place where one might see this young beauty. This wonderful series was printed to the highest quality with fine line work and soft shading, and often with additional embellishments, such as delicate embossing or burnishing. A lovely series and collector's favorite.

Keian Era (1648-1652) - Lovely image of a Keian era beauty traveling, lifting her black lacquer hat above her head for a better look. An orange scarf is draped over her head, the edge caught between her tiny, even white teeth. Her gray kimono features large tie-dyed motifs, the collar of her under robe patterned with intricate orange and white tie-dyed checks. Her long hair is combed over her shoulders, the edge of a white ribbon just visible. The inset above shows a pair of pale blue bowls decorated with maple leaves and following water, next to a wooden storage box. Rich color and fine line work in the hair. A beautiful composition with the edge of the hat extending into the upper register, adding a sense of depth.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 8 1/2" x 13" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Backed with old paper. Some toning or spotting at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.