Boy Wrestler Daidozan in the Ring

by Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Current Status

Boy Wrestler Daidozan in the Ring by Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795) Japanese Woodblock Reprint
Boy Wrestler Daidozan in the Ring

A Special 1938 Takamizawa Group - Founded in 1911, the Takamizawa Publisher of Tokyo has published some of the finest reprints of classic ukiyo-e designs. Drawing on the traditions and methods of the Edo era, the company produced reprints with the utmost care and great attention to detail, masterfully reproducing color, line work and even wood grain detail. Published in 1938, this handsome reprint group features designs by master artists such as Utamaro, Kiyonaga, Eishi, Hokusai, Hiroshige, Sharaku, and others. Each features a Takamizawa publisher seal on the  reverse. A great opportunity to acquire a high quality reprint of a famous Edo era subject.

Comments - Terrific Sharaku triptych depicting the eight-year-old boy wrestler Daidozan Bungoro taking part in the opening ceremonies before a sumo match. He stands in the center of the ring, stamping his foot and wearing the traditional fringed apron. Ten wrestlers are gathered around watching him, each a specific portrait rather than an idealized figure, in a variety of carefully observed and drawn attitudes and expressions. One man points at the child while others frown with displeasure or smile with amusement. In the left panel, the wrestlers are: top row, Tanikaze and Raiden; middle row, Miyagino; bottom row, Tatsugaseki and Kachozan. In the right panel, the wrestlers are: top row, Kumonryu and Tamagaki; middle row, Wadagahara; bottom row, Semiyana and Jinmaku. Beautifully detailed with soft color. An incredible and rare Sharaku sumo subject.

Artist - Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Image Size - 14 3/4" x 29 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Small tear at edge, hole, repaired. Slight toning spotting, and soiling, a few creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

Boy Wrestler Daidozan in the Ring by Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)
Boy Wrestler Daidozan in the Ring by Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)
Boy Wrestler Daidozan in the Ring by Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

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