Imao Keinen and the woodblocks of the four seasons - Imao Keinen is a noted woodblock print artist from the late 19th century specializing in birds and flowers subjects. His lovely woodblock prints are naturalistic representations of birds in their native habitat and the beautiful Japanese flora.

Keinen's most famous work is titled "Keinen Kacho Gafu"; and was a stunning four-part work of woodblock prints of birds and flowers in the four seasons. These woodblock prints were full oban vertical subjects in a natural soft color palette. Featuring stunning large birds and beautiful small songbirds against scenery like blossoming cherry branches or snow covered trees, these are exceptional nature prints from the 19th century.

These are all first edition, original prints from the 1891 release of "Keinen Kacho Gafu". Search the web, we found these lovely prints sold in the $175 - $350 range. Of course the Fuji Arts Keinen prints are all priced well below that standard retail range- and the exceptional quality of these prints is second to none. A rare opportunity to collect the highest quality Keinen prints at prices not found elsewhere. Bid now!

Shower at the Ruined Temple, 1847 - 1852 - Interesting scene of Prince Genji and two beauties seeking shelter from the rain inside a ruined temple. Using a straw mat as a raincoat, the young man smiles as he waits for the beauty at left to catch up with him. She smiles as she looks from under the kimono she has draped over her head as rain slants across the night sky. At right, their companion waits inside the doorway, her outer robe tucked under her arm and her a sandal dangling from a cord in her mouth. Autumn grasses and blossoms grow among the collapsing structure, with a stone statue in pieces on the ground at right. A handsome design with a nicely detailed setting.

Artist - Toyokuni III/Kunisada (1786 - 1864)

Image Size - 13 3/8" x 28 5/8"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels. A few wormholes, repaired. Slight soiling, a few wormholes. Please see photos for details. Good overall.