Mirror of the Ages - Published in 1897, Chikanobu's beautiful series "Mirror of the Ages" celebrates the beauty and fashions of women of the past. Each print in this delightful series features a single portrait of a young beauty, always carefully and stylishly made up, wearing the traditional contemporary fashion of her time. In the rectangular inset above the figure, Chikanobu has drawn a scene from the same time period suggesting a place where one might see this young beauty. This wonderful series was printed to the highest quality with fine line work and soft shading, and often with additional embellishments, such as delicate embossing or burnishing. A lovely series and collector's favorite.

The Kyoho Era (1716 - 1735) - Attractive portrait of a young beauty smiling happily, her lips slightly open as she leans forward eagerly. Her hair is styled into a loop atop her head held in place with a comb, hairpin, and narrow white ribbon. She wears an orange kimono with circular tie-dyed motifs featuring writing, over a pale blue robe with a delicate floral design. The white collar of her under robe is embossed with a geometric pattern. The inset above shows a traveling vendor selling beni-e or woodblock prints hand-colored with shades of pink. He displays his wares to a pair of children, one gesturing excitedly at the images. A lovely design with intricate line work in the hair and delicate pink shading around the eyes.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 12 7/8" x 8 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Paper remnants on reverse at top and bottom edges from previous mounting. Three small holes, repaired. Slight soiling and creasing. Please see photos for details. Good overall.