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.

Needlewomen Kurehatori and Ayahatori - Intriguing image showing two master needlewomen Kurehatori and Ayahatori, who according to legend introduced the arts of spinning and weaving to Japan from China during the reign of the Emperor Ojin. One woman sits at an oxidized red frame carefully working with needle and thread. The woman beside her holds a rolled up length of cloth. Beautifully detailed with fine embossing in the white cloth and title cartouche. An interesting subject.

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.