Gekko's Essays - Begun in 1886, "Gekko's Essays" (Zuihitsu) is a wonderful series encompassing a wide range of subjects. Gekko depicts figures from history and mythology, including famous beauties, poets, scholars, and warriors, along with a few supernatural creatures. These handsome designs are rendered in Gekko's distinctive painterly style, with soft washes of color and flowing calligraphic line work, expertly printed by Matsuki Heikichi to capture these qualities. The series was completed by 1887, but woodblocks are found with dates up to 1899, proving the popularity of the designs, which continued to be printed. A great choice to collect or display.

Dragon Rising to the Heavens - Fantastic design of a dragon appearing out of a swirling black cloud, rising toward the heavens before Mt. Fuji. The creature cranes its neck to look at the snow-capped sacred mountain. A dramatic composition, beautifully rendered in soft gradations of gray and black. A favorite from this series.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 8 5/8" x 12 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Some rubbing and soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.