A Meiji Collection print, opening at $59 - We purchased an interesting Meiji collection with a variety of prints and artists. We’re offering the prints, over two days, in our market driven $59 opening bid auctions – any high bid wins.

Foundations of Morality and Success - Many artists created designs for this long-running newspaper series depicting both contemporary and historical heroes and heroines. These exemplary individuals were thought to embody values to both inspire and encourage readers. The series was published by Heikichi Matsuki of the Daikokuya publishing firm, a company established in 1763 and known for its high quality woodblock designs. Daikokuya commissioned leading artists of the day, such as Yoshitoshi, Toshikata, Kiyochika, and Kunichika, to create these wonderful designs. Beautifully detailed with fine line work and soft shading, these great Meiji era prints were singled out for recognition by the Japanese government when the series was completed in 1890 for encompassing such uplifting and noble subjects. First edition prints feature a patterned border in a variety of colors, while the 1902 edition has plain paper borders. A fascinating series and a great choice for a collector interested in life in late 19th century Japan.

Oishi Yoshio - Interesting portrait of Oishi Kuranosuke Yoshio, the real-life leader of the 47 ronin, staggering home drunkenly on a moonlit night. He is accompanied by two laughing beauties and a young girl as he weaves through the street. After the death of his master, Lord Asano, Oishi pretended to lead a life of debauchery so that no one would suspect he was planning a vendetta against Lord Kira. Along with his fellow ronin, Oishi succeeded in avenging Lord Asano's death, and became immortalized as the fictional Oboshi Yuranosuke in the famous kabuki drama "Kanadehon Chushingura." Beautifully detailed with burnishing on the black coat and soft shading in the evening sky.

Artist - Toshikata (1866 - 1908)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 9 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Backed with paper. Slight toning. Some prints have slight soiling or a few spots. Please see photos for details. Generally in good to nice condition overall.