Eastern Customs: Enumerated Blessings - Attractive image from a Chikanobu series published from about 1887 to 1890. These charming scenes illustrate words that include the syllable fuku (or huku), which has many different meanings, but the primary meaning is blessing or good fortune. Women, children, and families are shown in daily life, playing games, enjoying different traditions, and celebrating festivals and events. Beautifully drawn with fine detail and vibrant color, these lovely Chikanobu designs offer a wonderful look at life in Japan during the Meiji era. A rarely seen series and a nice choice for a collector.

Chikanobu estate collection - This incredible group of Chikanobu prints just arrived in a recent shipment from Japan. It was purchased complete from the estate collection of a Tokyo collector. This group features a wide variety of Chikanobu's works including some rarer designs as well as prints in very fine condition. Be sure to shop from this amazing collection of Chikanobu prints now being added to our auctions!

Henfuku: Chasing Bats - Amusing image of two young boys chasing bats at twilight, waving bamboo poles at them and shouting with delight. A beauty watches at left, carrying a smaller child on her back, smiling as the boys run about. Three bats swoop overhead against the evening sky, and a narrow bridge crosses over a stream, leading to a thatched roof home in the distance. A charming subject.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13" x 9" + margins

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Lightly toned in margins and backed with thin paper. Faint spotting and soiling in subject. Minor creasing along edges and corners in some prints. Please see photos for a sense of individual condition. Nice overall.