Expo '70 Selected Masterpieces of Ukiyo-e Prints - To celebrate the opening of Expo '70, a world's fair held in Osaka, Japan in 1970, a woodblock reprint series of "Selected Masterpieces of Ukiyo-e" was commissioned. Featuring works from the Hiraki Collection, the renown Adachi Publisher of Tokyo produced the series of 12 prints with classic subjects by master artists such as Utamaro, Sharaku, Hiroshige, and Hokusai (see example of series label below, not included). These beautifully printed designs are finely detailed, and many feature deluxe publishing treatments such as mica or embossing. Each woodblock has a stamp on the reverse reading "T. Adachi/Made in Japan." We've never come across prints from this unusual commemorative series before. A great opportunity to acquire a high-quality ukiyo-e reprint with an interesting history.

Comments - Terrific Sharaku design of Ichikawa Komazo II playing the murderer Shiga Daishichi in the play "Katakiuchi Noriai Banashi." He looks ahead with determination, lips firmly pursed, his resting hand on the hilt of his katana. His hair is pulled back into a thin topknot, with short hair bristling atop his head. He wears a plain black kimono with the actor's family crest in white on the sleeve. A simple yet effective portrait with bold contrasts of black and white against the deep silver mica background.

Artist - Sharaku (active 1794 - 1795)

Image Size - 15 5/8" x 10 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. A few spots, a few light creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.