Mirror of the Ages - Published in 1897, Chikanobu's beautiful series "Mirror of the Ages" celebrates the beauty and fashions of women of the past. Each print in this delightful series features a single portrait of a young beauty, always carefully and stylishly made up, wearing the traditional contemporary fashion of her time. In the rectangular inset above the figure, Chikanobu has drawn a scene from the same time period suggesting a place where one might see this young beauty. This wonderful series was printed to the highest quality with fine line work and soft shading, and often with additional embellishments, such as delicate embossing or burnishing. A lovely series and collector's favorite.

The Tenpo Era (1830 - 1844) - Beautifully detailed portrait of a young lady from the Tenji Era. Her elegant hairstyle is wrapped with a protective white cloth to keep it neat. She wears a lovely outer kimono in green, patterned with colorful blossoms, pulling the collar closer with her hand. Her mouth is slightly open, showing her fashionably blackened teeth. The design above shows a performance for the Third Day of New Year's at Mt. Atago. A figure representing the messenger of the god Bishamonten stands on a low platform holding a large wooden rice paddle, flanked by two seated samurai. Wonderful embossed detail in the white kimono and hair cloth. A charming design from this series.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 12 7/8" x 8 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Small thinning spot, a few small holes, repaired. Very slight soiling, a few light creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.