Chiyoda Inner Palace - First published from 1894 - 1897, Chikanobu's "Chiyoda Inner Palace" (Chiyoda no Ooku) series depicts the lives of women in Edo Castle prior to the Meiji Restoration, when it was home to the shogun and his court. Edo Castle was also known as Chiyoda Castle, and the series includes 40 triptychs. The Inner Palace area housed the shogun's wife and unmarried daughters, his male heir, and many ladies-in-waiting and servants. These lovely triptychs illustrate seasonal activities both inside and outside of the women's private quarters, and a variety of ceremonies, rituals, and pastimes. The beauties are elegantly attired as they go about their daily lives, with wonderful attention and detail given to their sumptuous kimono and obi fabrics. Many designs include deluxe printing techniques such as burnishing, embossing, and mica or metallic pigment. Chikanobu's lovely "Chiyoda Inner Palace" series beautifully captures the world of upper-class women in mid-nineteenth century Japan.

Playing Oibane, 1896 - Lovely triptych of three young beauties playing a game of oibane or hanetsuki, a traditional game similar to badminton played at New Year's. They each hold decorative battledores called hagoita, and the oibane or feathered shuttlecock floats in midair in the center panel. Wonderful detail in the elegant kimono fabrics, including embossing on the white kimono trim and an allover dusting of mica on the background. A beautiful image of a favorite holiday pastime.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Small holes, repaired. A few creases at edges and marks. Please see photos for details.