Complete Meiji era Shunga Set (12 woodblock prints)

by Utagawa School

Current Status

Complete Meiji era Shunga Set (12 woodblock prints) by Utagawa School

Original Utagawa School Japanese woodblock print set
Complete Shunga Set (12 woodblock prints)

Shunga - Shunga is a Japanese term for erotic pictures. Some scholars believe that the first shunga were inspired by Chinese medical manuals. Shunga prints grew in popularity in the early 18th century and the production of shunga peaked in the golden age of the print period in the late 19th century. Many ukiyo-e artists did shunga in addition to their normal specialties. The works sold well and, often at higher prices than the normal genre. So, artists had an incentive to delve into the realm of shunga. Often of very high quality and with great sensitivity to the subject, the best artists produced shunga of remarkable beauty. Shunga were rarely signed as collectors in the field know. Some of the noted artists in the field were; Moronobu, Hokusai, Shigenobu and the great Utamaro. 

Comments - Complete shunga set are hard to find as individual prints often sell for more than a complete set. We're pleased to offer this original Meiji era set featuring 12 original prints.

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Collection Information - These prints were printed in the Meiji era at the turn of the century, circa 1890 - 1900 and sold as a set. This set comes with the original paper slip for storage and all twelve designs. Complete sets are rare to find. This set contains all 12 images from the original printing.

Artist - Utagawa School artist
Size - Folder: 5 1/4" x 7", Prints: 5 3/4" x 4 1/4" + margins as shown
Condition - Folder: Excellent color and detail. Some wrinkling and creases. Some rubbing and soiling. A few stains. Please see photos for details. Prints: With excellent color and detail. A couple spots. Please see photos for details.

Complete Set

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