Eastern Customs: Enumerated Blessings - Attractive image from a Chikanobu series published from about 1887 to 1890. These charming scenes illustrate words that include the syllable fuku (or huku), which has many different meanings, but the primary meaning is blessing or good fortune. Women, children, and families are shown in daily life, playing games, enjoying different traditions, and celebrating festivals and events. Beautifully drawn with fine detail and vibrant color, these lovely Chikanobu designs offer a wonderful look at life in Japan during the Meiji era. A rarely seen series and a nice choice for a collector.

Fukube: Gourds - Lovely scene from daily life of a young woman walking outside to dry her freshly washed hair. She wears a lavender and purple striped kimono with a pattern of interlocking ribs. Her companion looks up from her task of scrubbing a pot with a brush at the water's edge. A trellis with gourds and vines frames a view of the countryside beyond. Beautifully colored and detailed.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Small loss and slight thinning at edge, repaired. Creasing throughout, a few spots. Please see photos for details.