East - Chikanobu's 1896 series "East" (Azuma) depicts beauties taking part in everyday life. Subjects range from performing music, sewing, and playing games, to seasonal activities such as cherry blossom viewing or a child's first visit to a shrine. The word "Azuma" most often applies to Edo/Tokyo or the surrounding area, as east of Kyoto. Compared to the quieter, more staid lifestyle of Kyoto, the former capital, the term suggests the livelier, more fashionable, and less restrictive society of Edo. These charming designs feature beautiful color and wonderful detail in the elegant kimono and obi fabrics, and many include deluxe treatments such as embossing or burnishing. One of Chikanobu's more rarely seen beauty series, these designs are a nice choice for a collector.
Special detail - Burnished black lacquer details on the chest at left.
Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)
Image Size - 12 3/4" x 8 1/8" + margins as shown
Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight soiling, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.