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.

Comments - This print depicts two rabbits surrounded by rushes and looking up at the full moon. One of the twelve animals of the zodiac, the rabbit is associated with longevity. A beautiful print with fine bokashi shading. The poem below the moon reads:

The night is tender
on a bed of grasses.
Would the hare’s wife
sleep
wet in night dew?

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 - Hiroshige (1797 - 1858)

Image Size - 15" x 5" + margins as shown

Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.