Stories of Famous Japanese Women - In 1893, Chikanobu began work on a series of diptychs depicting scenes from the lives of famous Japanese women. His "Stories of Famous Japanese Women" included women from various time periods as well as mythological heroines, highlighting their dramatic deeds or personal virtues. These intriguing subjects are beautifully drawn with Chikanobu's characteristic fine line work, and lovely soft shading. A rare and wonderful series and a great choice for a collector.

Wife of Kajiwara Kagesue, 1894 - Attractive scene of the wife of the warrior Kajiwara Kagesue and her companions leaving a mansion, while a young messenger approaches them with a poem slip. The poem contains a flirtatious verse from the Shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo, who leans over the railing at right, waiting eagerly for the beauty's reply. Despite the danger in turning him down, she continues on her way, staying faithful to her husband, one of Yoritomo's loyal retainers. Lovely color and detail in this handsome design, with fine embossing in the white kimono trim and soft shading in the background.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 18 1/2"

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Two panels, attached at the seams, backed with paper. Slight soiling, faint red mark in subject. Please see photos for details. Good overall.