Shunga - Shunga is a Japanese term for erotic pictures. Some scholars believe that the first shunga were inspired by Chinese medical manuals. Shunga prints grew in popularity in the early 18th century and the production of shunga peaked in the golden age of the print period in the late 19th century. Many ukiyo-e artists did shunga in addition to their normal specialties. The works sold well and, often at higher prices than the normal genre. So, artists had an incentive to delve into the realm of shunga. Often of very high quality and with great sensitivity to the subject, the best artists produced shunga of remarkable beauty. Shunga were rarely signed as collectors in the field know. Some of the noted artists in the field were Moronobu, Hokusai, Shigenobu and the great Utamaro.

Comments - Utamaro was an undisputed master of ukiyo-e and his shunga designs are equally sought after by collectors. We're pleased to offer this original collection attributed to Utamaro featuring 12 original prints. They are drawn with fine line work and delicate, playful details, including dialogue text in Japanese.

Artist - Attributed to Utamaro (1750 - 1806)

Image Size - 7" x 9 1/4"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown, backed with paper. Vertical, center fold. Some wormholes, repaired, light toning, a few spots on some prints. Please see photos for details. On some images, light soiling at edges.