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 Arriving at the Front Entrance Gate, 1897 - Terrific scene of a daimyo arriving at the front entrance to the Shogun's palace as evening falls. A group of noblemen sit on a mat in the center, watching as a group crosses the bridge to the imposing stone castle entrance. At left a retainer waters a horse while another man places a lighted candle inside a collapsible paper lantern. A large bonfire burns behind them, casting an orange glow on the watching crowd as smoke billows into the sky. Wonderful detail in this fantastic image, with beautiful shading in the sky and burnishing on the black lacquer parts of the lanterns. An atmospheric scene of upper-class life during the Tokugawa Shogunate.

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.