Publisher - Adachi from a rare series of Edo masterwork designs. Adachi publisher seal in margin or on reverse.

Adachi was one of the most respected publishers of the 20th century. Their woodblocks were printed to the highest standards with excellent color and fine detail. Founded in 1925, Adachi also chose interesting and varied subjects for their prints and was the only publisher of many famous old ukiyo-e images.

Hour of the Tiger (4 to 6 am) - Handsome scene of two courtesans taking a brief break to smoke a pipe and chat. The beauty at right covers her mouth with her sleeve as she divulges a secret to her companion. Beautiful detail in the intricately pattern fabrics and the teapot and lidded bowl. To emulate the original print, the background is flecked with metallic pigment that has oxidized to a dark tone.

Artist - Utamaro (1750 - 1806)

Image Size - 15 1/4" x 10" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight toning. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.