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.

Sano Tsuneyo - Intriguing scene of the impoverished Sano Tsuneyo lighting a fire with the branches of his prized bonsai trees. One night, a Buddhist monk arrived unexpectedly at the rather shabby home of Tsuneyo. The poor man and his wife treated the surprise visitor with as much honor as they could, even burning Tsuneyo's bonsai trees to cook a meal for him. The monk was actually the retired regent Hojo Tokiyori, who was disguised during an intelligence gathering mission. Here, Tsuneyo kneels beside the floor brazier, feeding pin and plum branches to the roaring flames as smoke rises and drifts out the door. On the porch outside, his sword rests alongside the stumps of his once-beautiful potted trees. A beautifully detailed illustration of this famous story.

Artist - Yasuji Inoue (1864 - 1889)

Image Size - 12 1/2" x 7 7/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. Slight soiling, a few creases. A couple prints have a stain in the margin. Please see photos for details.This print with excellent detail as shown. Backed with paper. Slight soiling, a few creases. A couple prints have a stain in the margin. Please see photos for details.