Comments - A very rare and fine original Kiyonaga shunga from the print series Sodo no maki (Handscroll for the Sleeve). This unique series is one of the great masterwork series of the shunga genre and prints from it are exceptionally rare. The series is comprised of twelve designs total; eleven are images of couples lovemaking, the final a more anatomical study. The prints were originally joined end to end in a squat, thick scroll and intended to be stashed away in a flowing kimono sleeve.

The hashira-e or "pillar print" format is highly unusual for shunga designs. The format forced the artist to arrange the couples along the long narrow field of the space. Kiyonaga placed the couples in the pillar print with a sense of flow and movement that is captivating. This series one of his great masterwork designs.

Two lovers in a passionate embrace, the woman having not taken the time to remove her hair covering or her socks. A terrific image from Kiyonaga's series.

This is a true museum quality print and an exceptionally rare find. An excellent choice for the serious collector.

Artist - Kiyonaga (1752 - 1815)

Image Size - 26 1/4" x 4 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - Beautiful overall with fine color and excellent detail. Vertical creases from long term scroll rolling, common for this series. Some spotting and stains, on man's face and at right edge. Faint toning and minor wear at edges. The print was backed originally with thin backing paper and retains that backing from end to end mounting for the complete scroll presentation.