Utamaro's Picture Book of Selected Insects - Fantastic series by Utamaro depicting pairings of various insects with a kyoka (or humorous poem) relating to each creature. Some prints including accents of shimmering mica or metallic pigment. A charming design from a rarely seen Utamaro series.

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 - 8 1/2" x 12 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with nice color and detail as shown. Tiny tear at corner, repaired. A couple light creases at edges. Please see photos for details.