Gekko's Essays - Begun in 1886, "Gekko's Essays" (Zuihitsu) is a wonderful series encompassing a wide range of subjects. Gekko depicts figures from history and mythology, including famous beauties, poets, scholars, and warriors, along with a few supernatural creatures. These handsome designs are rendered in Gekko's distinctive painterly style, with soft washes of color and flowing calligraphic line work, expertly printed by Matsuki Heikichi to capture these qualities. The series was completed by 1887, but woodblocks are found with dates up to 1899, proving the popularity of the designs, which continued to be printed. A great choice to collect or display.

Boiling Water Ordeal - Terrific scene of the legendary Japanese hero and statesman Takenouchi no Sukune proving his innocence by plunging his hands into boiling water without injury. Takenouchi served as a minister to five different emperors, and was accused of treason while serving Regent Jingu. Here, the elderly advisor undergoes the ordeal of boiling water to prove himself, as a man watches with stunned horror, holding his hands out in alarm. Flames lick the bottom of the cauldron and steam fills the air. A dramatic depiction of this famous tale and a great choice for a student of Japanese history.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 12 3/4" x 8 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Some prints have very slight soiling or a few small spots. Please see photos for a sense of individual condition. Generally in nice condition overall.