One Hundred Aspects of the Moon - Considered his masterwork, Yoshitoshi's series One Hundred Aspects of the Moon features one hundred oban size woodblocks, published between 1885 and 1892. These quiet and reflective prints, beautifully composed and drawn, feature subjects from traditional Japanese and Chinese history and legend, rendered with great sensitivity and emotion. The moon appears in all but a few prints, providing a unifying motif for the series.

Yoshitoshi's innovative designs for the Moon series are often elegantly spare, with simple backgrounds that focus attention on the human figure. He combines the western influences of realism and perspective with qualities from traditional Japanese and Chinese painting, such as the emphasis on calligraphic brushstroke. The figures are carefully drawn with beautiful linework, conveying a real sense of individual character, gesture, and emotion. Special printing techniques such as embossing and burnishing add a sumptuous touch where appropriate, but simple subjects are conveyed in a likewise manner, no less carefully observed.

Prints from the series were released singly or in groups every few months, with the final image completed shortly before Yoshitoshi's death. The series proved tremendously popular, with patrons lining up to purchase the new releases as soon as they became available. Today, One Hundred Aspects of the Moon remains Yoshitoshi's most well-known work, characterized by his artistry, compassion, and sensitivity in portraying the human experience.

Chofu Village Moon - Handsome depiction along the banks of the Chofu Jewel River of two women beating freshly woven cloth to make it softer. They take turns pounding the fabric with mallets in a mortar, with washed cloth waiting to be beaten on the straw mat at left, and finished lengths stretched out on the shore to dry. A full moon glows high in the evening sky, bathing the quiet scene with soft light. A charming illustration of tranquil village life. Nicely detailed with fine bokashi shading in the clear blue water and sky.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 8 3/4" x 13" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight toning on reverse at edges. Stitching holes at left edge from previous binding, small tear at edge, repaired. Slight soiling, a few small spots and creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.