One Hundred Aspects of the Moon - Considered his masterwork, Yoshitoshi's series One Hundred Aspects of the Moon features one hundred oban size woodblocks, published between 1885 and 1892. These quiet and reflective prints, beautifully composed and drawn, feature subjects from traditional Japanese and Chinese history and legend, rendered with great sensitivity and emotion. The moon appears in all but a few prints, providing a unifying motif for the series.

Yoshitoshi's innovative designs for the Moon series are often elegantly spare, with simple backgrounds that focus attention on the human figure. He combines the western influences of realism and perspective with qualities from traditional Japanese and Chinese painting, such as the emphasis on calligraphic brushstroke. The figures are carefully drawn with beautiful linework, conveying a real sense of individual character, gesture, and emotion. Special printing techniques such as embossing and burnishing add a sumptuous touch where appropriate, but simple subjects are conveyed in a likewise manner, no less carefully observed.

Prints from the series were released singly or in groups every few months, with the final image completed shortly before Yoshitoshi's death. The series proved tremendously popular, with patrons lining up to purchase the new releases as soon as they became available. Today, One Hundred Aspects of the Moon remains Yoshitoshi's most well-known work, characterized by his artistry, compassion, and sensitivity in portraying the human experience.

Gojo Bridge Moon - A great image and Yoshitoshi original depicting Minamoto no Yoshitsune in his youth. This print shows a scene from the story of Yoshitsune meeting Benkei on Gojo Bridge. Benkei had been stealing the swords from warriors who crossed the bridge in order to make himself one incredible sword. Yoshitsune is shown leaping high into the sky to evade Benkei's attempts to steal his sword, the moon seen behind him. Beautiful colors in this fine print, with fine cloth embossing in the pink and white robe.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 8 7/8" x 13" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. With slight wrinkles. A few stains as shown. Some minor soiling. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.