Chiyoda Outer Palace - Following his successful "Chiyoda Inner Palace" series, Chikanobu designed a second triptych series first published in 1897 illustrating the "Chiyoda Outer Palace" (Chiyoda no on-omote), the domain of the shogun and his retainers at Edo Castle, also known as Chiyoda Castle. The men are depicted taking part in sporting and hunting activities, martial arts, annual ceremonies, and traditional rituals. The Outer Palace series was smaller than the Inner Palace series, with 32 triptychs instead of 40, and these designs are seen much less often. Chikanobu's characteristic attention to detail highlights the clothing and accessories worn by the samurai, as well as the indoor and outdoor settings. Many designs include deluxe printing techniques such and embossing and burnishing. The handsome "Chiyoda Outer Palace" series provides a wonderful look at life inside the Shogun's castle prior to the Meiji Restoration.

Daimyo Procession Arriving at the Palace for the New Year's Day Greeting, 1897 - Wonderful panoramic view of a long procession of feudal lords approaching Chiyoda Palace for the annual New Year's Day greeting of the Tokugawa Shogun. A fantastic image showing samurai marching solemnly towards the stone wall of the castle, the two men in front carrying gifts in large wooden trunks. At right, a daimyo rides in a palanquin, surrounded by his retainers. A tower of the palace rises at left with other buildings silhouetted in gray along the horizon. Beautifully detailed with cloth embossing on the white kimono and burnishing on the trunks and palanquin. A terrific choice for collectors interested in traditional activities during the shogun's reign.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14" x 28"

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Some prints have a few spots or marks. Please see photos for details. Generally in nice condition overall.