Takamizawa's Taisho Era Reprints - With the increase in Western visitors to Japan in the early 20th century and renewed interest in Edo era woodblocks, some of the best publishing houses began to release high quality ukiyo-e reprints. The Takamizawa Publisher produced this beautiful print during the Taisho era (1911 - 1925). These designs were created with the utmost care and great attention to detail, masterfully reproducing color, line work and even wood grain detail. Takamizawa's reprints are a fantastic achievement, and they are considered the finest reprint publisher of the era.

A Special Group - This special group of Takamizawa woodblocks includes the original folders that came with each print, with text in English and Japanese describing the design, and a title slip on the front. These original folders are a rare find! Each print has a Taisho era Takamizawa seal on the reverse. Today, these lovely old prints are valuable and highly sought after. A great choice for collectors interested in these classic images.

Comments - Fantastic Sharaku design of Morita Kanya VIII in the role of the palanquin-bearer Uguiso-no Jirosaku from the play "Hana Shobu Omoi-no Kanzashi." In this dance scene, the character seems to have just come to a stop, the momentum of his body thrusting his head forward as he pauses momentarily, clutching his sleeves to his chest. His eyebrows are raised as he looks ahead wide-eyed with an expression of alarm or dismay. He wears a soft green kimono with a tie-dyed pattern of seashells, under a sleeveless robe in muted violet, and a tan cloth cap. A terrific portrait with beautiful subtle color set off by a deep silver, distressed mica background.

Artist - Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Image Size - Print 15 3/8" x 10 1/4" + margins as shown; folder 18 1/2" x 13"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Print: Light toning. Folder: Slight creasing at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.