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 - This very rare selection of images is a fantastic example of Eisen's Meiji era work. Observe the western styling of the male lover's hair and the brilliant use of color. This is a perfect opportunity to collect some fantastic later examples of this composition and style.

Note - Metallic print detail

Artist - Attributed to Eisen Tomioka

Image Size - 6 5/8" x 9 3/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight toning, a few spots. Slight wear at edges. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.