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.

Tokugawa Ieyasu as a Child - Terrific image of the future Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu (called Takechiyo when young) leading a group of children in a stone throwing war at the tender age of ten. Perched on a retainer's back, he uses a fan to direct the youths who gather stones along the riverbank and wade into the river to toss them at their opponents on the opposite bank, the rocks flying through the air. The young boy standing at right wears a horned battle helmet while dragging a toy behind him on a string. A great image showing the early leadership ability of the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Artist - Kiyochika (1847 - 1915)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 9 5/8" + left margin as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight toning, a few creases. Please see photos for details. Good overall.