Bathhouse, ca 1775 - Twelve Holds of Love was an extremely influential early shunga series that had a profound effect on the course of the genre. The oban format, the tight focus around the subjects and the exaggeration of the genitalia were all reflected in the shunga of that 19th century. The series title references sumo wrestling holds adapted for the pairs of intertwined lovers

In this final print of the series, the men and women are shown in a bathhouse, but an erotic context still prevails. A man gives a woman a shoulder massage as she massages him and a young boy points to a man's erection. This print also features Koryusai's well-known compositional format of positioning the illustration between pairs of parallel diagonal lines. This subject in particular features numerous examples: lines along wooden floor divides, the pattern on the floor mat, as well as the lines along the alcove and wall. A terrific example of Koryusai's work and an excellent chance to own an early shunga masterwork - bid now!

Artist - Koryusai (1735 - 1790)

Image Size - 10" x 7 1/2" + margin as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Backed with old paper. A few small holes and losses repaired with backing. Some rubbing and soiling in subject as shown. Slightly curled. Please see photos for details. Good overall.