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.

Series; The Merry Drinkers (Ehon warai jogo) - A fantastic, original shunga design by Utamaro from his series "The Merry Drinkers" (Ehon warai jogo) produced in 1803 at the height of Utamaro's artistic success. The prints from this series are marvelous and sensuous depictions of lovers and sexual fantasies of early 19th century Japan. A great opportunity for a collector.

Artist - Utamaro (1750 - 1806)

Image Size - 9 7/8" x 6 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail. Two panels attached at the seam. Backed with thin paper. Some rubbing, soiling and staining at edges as shown. A few losses repaired. Please see photos for details