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.

Swallowed by Wani, 1874 - Dramatic depiction of a sailor abandoning his ship, about to be eaten by a mythological wani or sea monster. The wani lived in the inlet of Koga in Shima Province, concealing itself among the rocks and seaweed. One day, a boat sailing through the inlet caught fire, and the sailors aboard jumped into the sea after efforts to extinguish the fire failed. The wani promptly swallowed up all the men, leaving no survivors. This illustration of an event that supposedly took place in the fifth month of 1874 shows a fierce, scaly creature leaping out of the waves as the sailor drifts beneath the current, his stripe robe floating around him. The creature's mouth is wide open, revealing a red tongue and pointed teeth, its eyes glowing yellow and green. A fantastic supernatural image, the water beautifully colored to suggest movement as it sweeps across the page. An unusual design from this newspaper series.

Artist - Yoshiiku (1833 - 1904)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 9 3/8" + margins as shown

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