Life-like Dolls Exhibited at Asakusa Okuyama, 1855 - Fascinating depiction of strange people from many different countries. Kuniyoshi's "Modern Select Dolls" series was based on a group of "dolls" on display at Kannon Temple in Asakusa. The dolls were actually very realistic, life-sized figures dressed in real clothes. Here, he presents a group of unusual men from exotic locations around the world. At left, a man with extremely long legs carries a man with extremely long arms on his back, the two working together to catch fish in a stream. A man just to the right dangles a fish by a cord, his back curved into a "C" shape. At right, two fellows with holes through the middle of their chests transport a companion by a pole thrust through his chest opening. Seemingly suffering no discomfort, the passenger calmly looks up, surveying his surroundings as he shields his eyes with his hand. The title cartouche at upper right is ringed with coral branches with an elephant peeking out from behind. An intriguing and creative image from this rarely seen Kuniyoshi series. This diptych is in the collection of the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 19 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. Vertical fold in left panel. Slight thinning or small holes at corners from previous mounting, a few thinning spots and small holes, repaired. Slight soiling, a few rubbed spots. Please see photos for details. Good overall.