Publisher - Adachi from a rare series of Edo masterwork designs. Adachi publisher seal in margin or on reverse.

Adachi was one of the most respected publishers of the 20th century. Their woodblocks were printed to the highest standards with excellent color and fine detail. Founded in 1925, Adachi also chose interesting and varied subjects for their prints and was the only publisher of many famous old ukiyo-e images.

A Modern Version of Komachi Praying for Rain - Lovely full-length portrait of a beauty with an umbrella out for a stroll. She pause to look back over her shoulder as she holds a poem slip in her hands, the umbrella handle resting against her shoulder. Her green kimono is bordered with blossoms and tied with a darker green obi with a rosy floral pattern. Clouds drift across the sky and hills can be seen on the opposite shore of the water behind her. A charming Edo era beauty subject with attractive color, nicely composed. Rarely seen in reprint.

Woodblock reprints - In the 20th century, artists and publishers collaborated to recreate famous woodblock prints for interested Japanese collectors and Westerners looking for rare designs. New blocks were made, and the prints were painstakingly printed by artisan printers in the same method as the 19th century originals - one block for each color. Woodblock reprints were an opportunity to collect and enjoy a famous design at a small fraction of the price of an original. They still are today.

Artist - Toyokuni I (1769 - 1825)

Image Size - 14 7/8" x 9 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.