Takamizawa Reprints - Handsome reprint by the venerable Takamizawa publisher. Takamizawa was known as one of the finest reprint publishers of the 20th century, and produced some of the highest quality ukiyo-e woodblock reprints of all time. A great opportunity to acquire a fine reprint of a classic ukiyo-e design.

Comments - Lovely image of the courtesan Wakaume of the Tamaya in Edo-machi itchome, shown with one of her young attendants peering around her back. She pulls up the collar of her outer kimono patterned with cherry blossoms, which has slipped from her shoulders. A beautiful portrait in a soft color palette, with a pale mica ground adding a subtle shimmer.

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 - Utamaro (1750 - 1806)

Image Size - 15 1/2" x 10 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - With excellent color and detail as shown. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.