Fujiwara Playing the Flute by Moonlight

by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

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Fujiwara Playing the Flute by Moonlight by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Original Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892) Japanese Woodblock Print
Fujiwara Playing the Flute by Moonlight

Comments - This image is indisputably Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece, and may be considered one of the greatest ukiyo-e woodblock prints. This triptych illustrates a tale about the Heian-era nobleman, Fujiwara no Yasumasa, playing his flute on the lonely moor of Ichihara while walking home one night. His brother, Hakamadare Yasusuke (Kidomaru) snuck up on him, intent on robbing him of his elegant robe, but enchanted by Yasumasa's beautiful music, he stopped in his tracks. Kidomaru instead followed his brother home, who only then became aware of his presence and happily gave him a robe.

Yoshitoshi shows Yasumasa absorbed in his playing, standing tall as the wind blows his robes about him, completely oblivious to his surroundings. Kidomaru crouches beside him, ready to draw his sword, completely entranced by the sound of his brother's flute. Misty clouds drift across a warm, yellow full moon glowing in the softly shaded evening sky. The tall grasses are beautifully drawn and seem to rustle in the night breeze, providing an atmospheric setting for the scene. A beautifully composed and lyrical design, capturing a moment in time and transporting the viewer to the scene. Detailed with fine bokashi shading and traces of mica.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 28" x 14"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Slightly darkened with age. A few small holes repaired from reverse. A tear at top edge of center panel repaired. A couple faint crease at edges. Please see photos for details. Very nice overall.

Fujiwara Playing the Flute by Moonlight by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)
Fujiwara Playing the Flute by Moonlight by Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

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