Stories of Famous Japanese Women - In 1893, Chikanobu began work on a series of diptychs depicting scenes from the lives of famous Japanese women. His "Stories of Famous Japanese Women" included women from various time periods as well as mythological heroines, highlighting their dramatic deeds or personal virtues. These intriguing subjects are beautifully drawn with Chikanobu's characteristic fine line work, and lovely soft shading. A rare and wonderful series and a great choice for a collector.

Princess Chujo, 1893 - Wonderful scene from the story of Princess Chujo, whose wicked stepmother ordered a servant to take Chujo into the woods and kill her. The old servant could not bring himself to commit such a horrible deed, so he and his elderly wife took the young princess to live with them in their cottage in the woods. While on a hunting trip to the mountains, her father discovered his daughter outside the cottage. This scene depicts the moment of discovery, as the father rides along the mountain trail, carrying his bow, chancing upon the rustic home. A servant follows behind with game tied to a bamboo pole over his shoulder. The lovely princess stands at right in a beautiful, intricately patterned kimono, looking over her shoulder at the visitors arriving, slowly realizing that the nobleman is her father. A terrific diptych from this legendary tale, detailed with embossing in the white kimono trim, and burnishing in the black court caps.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 18 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Two separate panels. Pinholes in corners, repaired. Slight toning, a few spots and creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.