Kuniyoshi's Sixty-nine Post Stations of the Kisokaido Road - Terrific print from Kuniyoshi's Kisokaido Road series, published between 1852 and 1853. The Kisokaido Road ran between Edo and Kyoto along a mountainous inland route, as opposed to the Tokaido Road, which followed the coast. Kuniyoshi created one design for each of the sixty-nine stations along the way, plus images for Edo and Kyoto. Each features a well-known figure from history or legend, along with a small inset depicting the station itself. These terrific illustrations feature wonderful detail and handsome settings, many with deluxe printing treatments such as fine bokashi shading or burnishing. A great choice for a Kuniyoshi collector or anyone interested in Japanese history and folklore.

Kano: Botaro and His Nurse, 1852 - Handsome scene from the true story of Tamiya Botaro. As a young boy, Tamiya Botaro's father was murdered by a fencing master named Gentazaeomon, who sent Botaro to a temple where he intended to kill him. Botaro's nurse, Otsuji, knew of the plot but was unable to stop it. She prayed for many days for Botaro's life, eventually killing herself, asking that her life be taken to spare Botaro's. At the moment of her death, her prayer was granted and Botaro was released. Botaro killed Gentazaeomon, avenging his father. Here, Otsuji leans forward over the child, her hands clasped in prayer. The wind whips her robe and long hair, blowing white petals from the lotus blossoms growing along the water's edge. Botaro kneels quietly, dressed in a blue monk's robe with his head shaved. An intriguing image from this classic tale.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14" x 9 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two very small thinning spots, repaired. Very slight soiling. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.