Ten Types of Female Nudes - Ishikawa Toraji is perhaps best known for his 1934 - 1935 series "Ten Types of Female Nudes." These elegant shin hanga portraits depict modern nudes in contemporary settings, set against flat backgrounds with decorative patterning. Toraji designed and published the prints himself, and Yamagishi Kazue carved the blocks. The series generated controversy when first released, and reportedly some of the blocks were destroyed by the authorities. Most designs feature deluxe treatments such as shimmering mica or fine bokashi shading. A great choice for a collector of shin hanga prints.

Ishikawa Toraji - Born in Kochi, Ishikawa Toraji earned fame for his Western-style paintings. He founded an association of Western-style painters in 1902, and traveled throughout the United States and Europe. He created a number of woodblock prints, most notably a 1934 shin-hanga series titled "Ten Nudes." The majority of his works were landscapes, however. His lively and colorful designs are prized by modern collectors.

The Tinkle of the Bell Keyblock Print, 1935 - Charming image of a nude woman sitting on the floor, dangling a small bell in front of her dog as she plays with the pet. Her long hair is pulled back into a ponytail tied with a ribbon. Small lidded boxes are scattered about on the rug, and a folding screen across the top depicts a blossoming plum tree. An interesting and unusual keyblock print, providing a peek at the steps involved in creating a woodblock.

Artist - Ishikawa Toraji (1875 - 1964)

Image Size - 11 3/4" x 14 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Faint spotting, a few small creases near edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.