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.

Series; Erotic Prints for the Twelve Months (Koshoku zue juniko), 1788 - This is an incredible, original print from Erotic Prints for the Twelve Months (Koshoku zue juniko) by Shuncho. Published in 1788, this series, like those of Utamaro and Kiyonaga, helped cement establish form and styles that would guide Japanese erotica through the 19th century. These 18th century shunga are quite rare and valuable. Collectors are drawn to prints from this series by their value, the attractive size, and the artist himself - a major figure in the landscape of 18th century ukiyo-e.

Artist - Shuncho (active circa 1780 - 1795)

Image Size - 15" x 9 7/8"

Condition - With excellent color and detail. Some rubbing, soiling and fraying at edges. Slightly toned. Some stains. A few creases. Please see photos for details.