One Hundred Aspects of the Moon - Considered his masterwork, Yoshitoshi's series One Hundred Aspects of the Moon features one hundred oban size woodblocks, published between 1885 and 1892. These quiet and reflective prints, beautifully composed and drawn, feature subjects from traditional Japanese and Chinese history and legend, rendered with great sensitivity and emotion. The moon appears in all but a few prints, providing a unifying motif for the series.

Yoshitoshi's innovative designs for the Moon series are often elegantly spare, with simple backgrounds that focus attention on the human figure. He combines the western influences of realism and perspective with qualities from traditional Japanese and Chinese painting, such as the emphasis on calligraphic brushstroke. The figures are carefully drawn with beautiful linework, conveying a real sense of individual character, gesture, and emotion. Special printing techniques such as embossing and burnishing add a sumptuous touch where appropriate, but simple subjects are conveyed in a likewise manner, no less carefully observed.

Prints from the series were released singly or in groups every few months, with the final image completed shortly before Yoshitoshi's death. The series proved tremendously popular, with patrons lining up to purchase the new releases as soon as they became available. Today, One Hundred Aspects of the Moon remains Yoshitoshi's most well-known work, characterized by his artistry, compassion, and sensitivity in portraying the human experience.

Musashi Plain Moon - In ancient Japan, the Musashi Plain was thought to be haunted by magical foxes that would gather on the New Year. In his famous final print of "One Hundred Famous Views of Edo," Hiroshige depicted foxes gathering around a sacred pine on the edge of the Musashi Plain, small flames known as "foxfires" floating among them. Powerful magical abilities were often attributed to foxes. They were believed to be capable of taking on human appearance and mystically charming men. Often, unexplainable events were attributed to foxes. Here, a fox gazes into her reflection in the river behind her. The full moon rises behind and the underbrush is only visible in silhouette against the moonlit night sky. The night is full of possibilities for mischief and trickery for the fox. Evocative night scene with wonderful muted colors and subtle shading. This Yoshitoshi image is an incredible work of art and a woodblock masterpiece. An incredible opportunity to purchase this original Yoshitoshi masterwork print. Yoshitoshi's Musashi Plain Moon is one of his finest works and highly sought after by collectors. If you've always wanted to own a Yoshitoshi masterpiece, bid now!

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

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

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Nicely printed and clean with full margins. Backed with old album paper. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.