Gekko's Essays - Begun in 1886, "Gekko's Essays" (Zuihitsu) is a wonderful series encompassing a wide range of subjects. Gekko depicts figures from history and mythology, including famous beauties, poets, scholars, and warriors, along with a few supernatural creatures. These handsome designs are rendered in Gekko's distinctive painterly style, with soft washes of color and flowing calligraphic line work, expertly printed by Matsuki Heikichi to capture these qualities. The series was completed by 1887, but woodblocks are found with dates up to 1899, proving the popularity of the designs, which continued to be printed. A great choice to collect or display.

The Eastern Nakanokimi - Lovely design from the "Tale of Genji" of Princess Nakanokimi and her attendant pausing while traveling to admire the colorful autumn leaves. The beauty wears a kimono shaded from lavender to pale orange over her head like a veil, gently lifting the edge as she looks out across the valley. Her companion sits on a stool covered with a cloth, and servants can be seen behind the trunks at far left. Beautiful soft color and fine shading in this attractive scene.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 13" x 8 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. A couple stains. Please see photos for details.