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.

Faith in the Third-day Moon - Fantastic, original Yoshitoshi print depicting Yukimori, a warrior who interested Yoshitoshi and is pictured several times in his woodblock prints. He was a great warrior who served his master faithfully- the lord of Izumo province. When the lord was defeat and killed, Yukimori dedicated his life to avenging him. Here is a great portrait of Yukimori known for his incredible strength. The moon here is in the crescent moon symbol on his helmet. The thin crescent moon that begins to show in the sky on the third day of each lunar month is considered lucky. Yukimori wore and image of this moon on his helmet. A fantastic samurai image and wonderful opportunity to collect this Yoshitoshi masterwork.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 8 7/8" x 13" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Partially backed with thin paper. Some light rubbing and soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.