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 - Two versions of this subject exist. While the backgrounds remain the same, the wrestlers in the foregrounds at left and right are different. The crests on the panel across the top of the pavilion are also different, as are the names of the wrestlers standing in the ring.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 28 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with nice detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few losses and wormholes at edges, repaired. A few creases, staining. Please see photos for details.