Descending Geese of the Koto Bridges

by Harunobu (1724 - 1770)

Current Status

Descending Geese of the Koto Bridges by Harunobu (1724 - 1770)

Harunobu (1724 - 1770) Japanese Woodblock Reprint
Descending Geese of the Koto Bridges

Series; Eight Views of the Parlor

Eight Views of the Parlor - In Japan, the scenic "Eight Views of Omi" was a popular subject for woodblock print artists, featuring specific landscapes and weather conditions in Omi Province. Some artists adapted the theme of "Eight Views" using different locations such as Kanazawa or Edo. Harunobu went a step further with his witty parody titled "Eight Views of the Parlor," using scenes from everyday life in place of the famous sites. He likens the sound of a boiling teakettle to a night rain, and a towel on a rack blowing in the evening breeze to the billowing of a sail. These attractive designs feature Harunobu's lovely delicate line work and beautifully detailed settings. A great Edo era series by this ukiyo-e master.

Publisher - Adachi from a rare series of Edo masterwork designs. Adachi publisher seal in margin or on reverse.

Adachi was one of the most respected publishers of the 20th century. Their woodblocks were printed to the highest standards with excellent color and fine detail. Founded in 1925, Adachi also chose interesting and varied subjects for their prints and was the only publisher of many famous old ukiyo-e images.

Descending Geese of the Koto Bridges - Fantastic design from Harunobu's masterful series "Eight Views of the Parlor" showing two elegant young beauties sitting on either side of a koto. The bridges of the musical instrument create the appearance of a row of geese descending for the evening, hence the title. Beautifully drawn with fine delicate detail and subtle coloring. A lovely work from one of Harunobu's most well known series parodying the famous "Eight Views of Omi" with scenes from everyday life.

Artist - Harunobu (1724 - 1770)

Image Size - 11 1/2" x 8 5/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Faint toning, slight soiling. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Descending Geese of the Koto Bridges by Harunobu (1724 - 1770)
Descending Geese of the Koto Bridges by Harunobu (1724 - 1770)
Descending Geese of the Koto Bridges by Harunobu (1724 - 1770)

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