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 line work, 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.

Ishiyama Moon - Beautiful Yoshitoshi print depicting Murasaki Shikibu at the temple of Ishiyama overlooking Lake Biwa. Murasaki became famous for writing "The Tale of Genji." Here she is shown seeking inspiration to write her novel. Beautifully colored violet robe in this print, with fine embossing in the white kimono.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 12 7/8" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A couple small stains, a few small spots and marks, a few creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.