Articulated Shunga Paper Toy Prints

by 19th century artist (unsigned)

Current Status

Articulated Shunga Paper Toy Prints by 19th century artist (unsigned)

Original 19th century Japanese Woodblock Print
Articulated Shunga Paper Toy Prints

Shunga - Shunga is a Japanese term for erotic pictures. Some scholars believe that the first shunga were inspired by Chinese medical manuals. Shunga prints grew in popularity in the early 18th century and the production of shunga peaked in the golden age of the print period in the late 19th century. Many ukiyo-e artists did shunga in addition to their normal specialties. The works sold well and, often at higher prices than the normal genre. So, artists had an incentive to delve into the realm of shunga. Often of very high quality and with great sensitivity to the subject, the best artists produced shunga of remarkable beauty. Shunga were rarely signed as collectors in the field know. Some of the noted artists in the field were Moronobu, Hokusai, Shigenobu and the great Utamaro.

Comments - A rare and interesting paper toy print including an articulated paper man attached to and interacting with a woman on a print background, a slot in the print allowing for a handle to control his movement. The articulated man is attached to the print at feet and hands, while joints at his shoulder and waist allow him to be shifted into different positions. By using the stick at the back, the man can be put to motion. These shunga toy prints are very rarely seen. This is the most complex and detailed set we have ever seen.

Artist - 19th century artist (unsigned)

Image Size - 4 7/8" x 3 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail. Some minor soiling. Please see photos for details. Very nice overall.

Articulated Shunga Paper Toy Prints by 19th century artist (unsigned)
Articulated Shunga Paper Toy Prints by 19th century artist (unsigned)

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