Kuniyoshi's Sixty-nine Post Stations of the Kisokaido Road - Terrific print from Kuniyoshi's Kisokaido Road series, published between 1852 and 1853. The Kisokaido Road ran between Edo and Kyoto along a mountainous inland route, as opposed to the Tokaido Road, which followed the coast. Kuniyoshi created one design for each of the sixty-nine stations along the way, plus images for Edo and Kyoto. Each features a well-known figure from history or legend, along with a small inset depicting the station itself. These terrific illustrations feature wonderful detail and handsome settings, many with deluxe printing treatments such as fine bokashi shading or burnishing. A great choice for a Kuniyoshi collector or anyone interested in Japanese history and folklore.

Kuragano: Jiraiya - Handsome portrait of the young thief and magician Jiraiya sitting on a folding stool beneath a pine tree with two followers. They are gathered around a roaring fire as evening falls. Jiraiya wears a black coat over a black kimono tucked into brocade hakama pants featuring dragon motifs, his long hair pulled back into a ponytail. A popular folk hero, Jiraiya practiced toad magic and could turn himself into a toad. The inset at upper left takes the shape of a toad, showing travelers on a rocky road near Kuragano. Nicely detailed with an attractive natural setting.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797-1861)

Image Size - 9 5/8" x 14"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail - a sharp, clean printing. A few prints have one or two tiny holes repaired from reverse. Faint soiling at edges. Please see photos for details. Very nice overall.