Minamoto no Yorimitsu and Tsuchigumo (the Earth Spider), 1853

by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Current Status

Minamoto no Yorimitsu and Tsuchigumo (the Earth Spider), 1853 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Original Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864) Japanese Woodblock Print
Minamoto no Yorimitsu and Tsuchigumo (the Earth Spider), 1853

Comments - An incredible Toyokuni III triptych depicting a scene from the story of Minamoto no Yorimitsu (called Raiko) and the ground spider. Raiko fell ill with a fever and was having visions of demons. The last one was of an earth spider, preparing to cast a web over him. He lashed out at it with his sword and struck it down and immediately recovered from his fever. Here, the spider is visiting the ailing Raiko in the guise of a seductive courtesan. He eyes her warily while entangled in a long sash held by a wild-haired samurai at left. An enormous web fills the background, trapping two retainers wearing matching dragonfly kimono. Beautifully printed with fantastic detail, including a sumptuous burnished pattern in the black robe at left. Fine wood grain impression throughout the background. A terrific subject and an excellent choice to collect or display.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 29 1/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few small holes, slight separation at ends of vertical centerfolds, repaired. Faint ink offsetting, a couple light creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Minamoto no Yorimitsu and Tsuchigumo (the Earth Spider), 1853 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
Minamoto no Yorimitsu and Tsuchigumo (the Earth Spider), 1853 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)
Minamoto no Yorimitsu and Tsuchigumo (the Earth Spider), 1853 by Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)