Rakusan's Album of Birds and Flowers - Tsuchiya Rakusan designed his lovely, large format "Album of Birds and Flowers" (Rakusan kacho gafu) series in the late 1920s, with the first edition published from 1929 to 1933. Prints were available by private subscription only, with two subjects issued each month, and a first printing run limited to about 200 copies. The series proved so popular that Rakusan released a second edition between 1935 - 1941, and a few design were even issued in a third edition from 1948 - 1955.

Comprised of one hundred prints, this stunning series features beautifully drawn birds in their natural habitats, set against blossoming cherry trees or rugged pines, perched on swaying branches or caring for young, captured in deep rich color with wonderful detail. Several images are embellished with a dusting of metallic gold. These complex designs required the greatest skill of carvers and printers to translate Rakusan's vision into woodblock format. Today, collectors prize these beautiful prints for their striking compositions, jewel-like color, and delicate detail.

Edition - First edition, 1929 - 1933
Publisher - Self published

Artist - Rakusan Tsuchiya (1896 - 1976)

Image Size - 13 3/8" x 18 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Faint vertical fold. Slight toning and soiling, a few spots, crease at edge. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.