Tokyo nichinichi shinbun - Interesting subject from a series of sensational illustrations done by Yoshiiku for the "Tokyo nichinichi shinbun" newspaper during the Meiji era. These often dramatic images depict contemporary events in the news, including murders, robberies, and assaults, as well as suicides, fires, natural disasters, battles and campaigns, and even supernatural occurrences. Rendered in lively colors, each illustration is accompanied by a story in text. The title cartouche takes the form of a banner held by two winged cherubs, an interesting Western touch. These bold designs offer a terrific look into the daily life of Meiji era Japan.

Young Man Becomes a Tanuki, 1875 - Terrific supernatural scene of a young man becoming a tanuki or raccoon dog. In Yokose village, a farmer's daughter requested an incantation at Yakushido Temple from the Buddha of healing to cure a rare disease. Each night, a beautiful young man mysteriously appeared to her, but was he a tanuki in the guise of a human sent to assist her, or a human transforming into a mischievous tanuki? Here, the beauty leans forward, resting her elbows on a robe draped over a box. Her chin on her hands, she looks up at the attractive visitor with a happy grin. A slender, fox-like, tanuki spirit begins to rise from the young man at upper right. An intriguing design we've never before come across.

Artist - Yoshiiku (1833 - 1904)

Image Size - 13 3/4" x 9 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Faint toning, a few light creases. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.