Surimono - Surimono are an exclusive subcategory of Japanese woodblock prints. Poetry clubs commissioned these designs for distribution to a small audience of members, most often as New Year's greetings. These privately published images included a wonderful range of subjects and lavish printing techniques such as embossing, burnishing, and metallic pigments. Since surimono were not sold commercially, the print runs were very small and original Edo era surimono are incredibly rare in the market today. Many high-quality reprints of these great designs were published during the Meiji era.

A Special 1931 Group - These lovely prints come from a series of fifty classic surimono designs reprinted by the publisher Daito in 1931. Like the originals, many include deluxe embellishments, like embossing and metallic pigments. These fascinating and beautifully printed images continue to delight collectors today.

Comments - Terrific surimono image of a bamboo branch decorated with coins, poem slips, and lucky objects for the yearly Tanabata Festival. These traditional decorations can be seen waving above rooftops during this annual event. Handsome calligraphic line work in the bamboo.

Artist - Edo era artist (not read)

Image Size - 7 1/2" x 8 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight toning, a few small spots and light creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.