Comments - Attractive scene of a group of beauties watching awabi divers at work diving for shells in the rolling waters off the coast. One swims underwater, using a knife to pry a shell loose. On the shore above, a woman leans forward to watch the diver, shielding her hand with her eyes and holding a hat and walking staff. A wonderful subject, beautifully drawn with fine detail and soft coloring.

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" x 9 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Please see photos for details. Good overall.