A Japanese Dealer’s Personal Collection - This print and the others posted with our “Japanese dealer” subtitle are from the personal collection of a leading Japanese dealer. We were fortunate to be able to select a small number of fine pieces from the collection of this prominent Japanese print dealer. The prints in this offering are particularly good, rare and desirable designs that this dealer had set aside for his personal collection. We chose prints that we knew would appeal to Fuji Arts clients. Take some time to explore this fine, small group. These designs are rarely offered!

Comments - An incredible Kuniyoshi triptych depicting a scene from the story of Minamoto no Yorimitsu (called Raiko) and the ground spider. Raiko fell ill with a fever and dreamed of an earth spider preparing to cast a web over him. He struck at it with his sword and immediately recovered from his fever. Here, Raiko's loyal retainers have cornered the earth spider it its lair amidst an enormous web, covered with glowing yellow eyes. One warrior in the center prepares to strike it with a giant tree trunk, while another stands at upper right, ready to hurl a boulder down onto the creature. At lower right, a samurai wearing a kimono patterned with Buddhist prayer wheels holds a flaming torch close to the spider, one foot resting on the sticky web. A fantastic natural setting in an eerie dark forest with waterfalls rushing down either side of the demon's cave. A terrific subject.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 29 3/4"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Three panels, not attached at the seams. Stitching holes along one side of each panel from previous folio binding, a few small wormholes, repaired, blends well. Minor creasing, slight soiling and rubbing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.