Sumo Prints - The ancient sport of Japanese sumo wrestling proved a popular subject for woodblock print artists during the Edo and Meiji eras. Portraits of individual champion wrestlers often depict them during the ring entering ceremony, wearing a ceremonial belt that opens into an apron trimmed with fringed. Other designs show the athletes in action during matches, with the referee and judges present in front of crowds of other sumo and enthusiastic patrons. Matches were sometimes held on the grounds of a temple to raise funds for the temple, with temporary arenas erected for the event. These interesting prints are a nice choice for a collector interested in this classic Japanese sport.

Comments - Fantastic, complete six-panel print depicting professional sumo wrestlers active during the Edo era. The group includes portraits of 97 sumo wrestlers with a list above of their names and domains. A terrific and rare sumo design and a great subject for a collector.

Artist - Kuniteru II (1829 - 1874)

Image Size - 14" x 56 3/8"

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Six separate panels, backed with stiff paper. Small loss at edge, repaired. A few marks. Please see photos for details.