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 Tenna Era (1681 - 1684) - Lovely image of a beauty with her hair pulled high into a ponytail, with beautiful delicate line work in detail of her hair. She wears a colorful kimono patterned with tassels and flower petals. The collar of her robe has a wonderful embossed geometric pattern. A beautiful print with a pleasing golden yellow background contrasting beautifully with the bright aqua blue kimono. Nice wood grain detail in the upper portion, a sign of an early print.

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. Backed with paper. A few pinholes in top corners. Slight toning and soiling, a few tiny spots and creases at corners. Please see photos for details. Good overall.