The First Month (Mutsuki), 1847 - 1852 - Attractive scene from the story "A False Murasaki's Country Genji," a parody of the beloved "Tale of Genji" which recounts the adventures of Mitsuuji, the Country Genji. The young Mitsuuji sits at a low writing table at right, gesturing to a sheet of unrolled paper with his fan, his sword bearer seated behind him. He smiles happily as a visitor arrives at left, bowing deeply. In the center, a matron carries a lacquer offering tray stacked with gifts. At upper right, a nobleman and two beauties sit beside a brazier, the folding screen behind them patterned with lucky cranes in flight. Wonderful detail in the elegant palace furnishings and kimono fabrics, with burnishing on the black kimono and the black cushion Mitsuuji sits upon, and faint embossing on the white kimono collars and trim. A charming design.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14" x 28 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good detail as shown. Three separate panels. Vertical centerfold in each panel. Slight paper remnants at sides. Please see photos for details.