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.

Comments - This fantastic Choki print is considered not only Choki’s best design, but one of the great masterpieces of ukiyo-e. A beautiful woman living near the waterfront at Fukagawa and Edo has risen early to greet the rising sun at New Year. The great arc of the sun appears over the horizon in deep red, set against a shimmering dark silver mica sky. A lovely image, beautifully detailed.

Woodblock reprints - In the 20th century, artists and publishers collaborated to recreate famous woodblock prints for interested Japanese collectors and Westerners looking for rare designs. New blocks were made, and the prints were painstakingly printed by artisan printers in the same method as the 19th century originals - one block for each color. Woodblock reprints were an opportunity to collect and enjoy a famous design at a small fraction of the price of an original. They still are today.

Artist - Choki (active circa 1785 - 1805)

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

Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.