Kuniyoshi's Sixty-nine Post Stations of the Kisokaido Road - Terrific print from Kuniyoshi's Kisokaido Road series, published between 1852 and 1853. The Kisokaido Road ran between Edo and Kyoto along a mountainous inland route, as opposed to the Tokaido Road, which followed the coast. Kuniyoshi created one design for each of the sixty-nine stations along the way, plus images for Edo and Kyoto. Each features a well-known figure from history or legend, along with a small inset depicting the station itself. These terrific illustrations feature wonderful detail and handsome settings, many with deluxe printing treatments such as fine bokashi shading or burnishing. A great choice for a Kuniyoshi collector or anyone interested in Japanese history and folklore.

Takazaki: Konomura Oinosuke, 1852 - Fantastic scene of Konomura Oinosuke in his palace, looking up with a frown as a hawk emerges from the scroll he is holding. He watches as the bird takes flight, carrying a final message he has written in blood to notify his son of his impending death. He is dressed in sumptuous robes, his sword resting against his knee, his long gray hair flowing loosely over his shoulders. The floor is made of a mosaic pattern of colored stones, adding an interesting texture to the elegant setting. The inset at upper left shows a village nestled at the base of a mountain. Beautifully colored and detailed.

Artist - Kuniyoshi (1797 - 1861)

Image Size - 14" x 9 3/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Slight toning and soiling, slight rubbing at edges, stain. Please see photos for details. Good overall.