The Heroine Yugiri

by Shima Seien (1892 - 1970)

Current Status

The Heroine Yugiri by Shima Seien (1892 - 1970)

Original Shima Seien (1892 - 1970) Japanese Woodblock Print
The Heroine Yugiri

Series; The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Monzaemon, First Edition, circa 1922 - 1926

The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon - Published between 1922 and 1926, "The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon" illustrates the works of the famous playwright Chikamatsu Manzaemon (1653 - 1725), considered one of Japan's greatest dramatists. He authored more than 100 plays, mainly for the bunraku puppet theater, including historical romances and domestic tragedies, often based on true events. Many of these popular tales were adapted for kabuki theater and are still performed today.

This beautiful series consists of 18 prints by leading artists of the Taisho era, including two important female painters, Shima Seien (1892-1970) and Uemura Shoen (1875-1949).  From mysterious ghosts and poignant beauties to fierce deities and heroic warriors, each illustrates one of Chikamatsu's most memorable characters. Exquisitely carved by Yamagishi Kazue and expertly printed by Nishimura Kumakichi, many include deluxe printing techniques such as embossing, metallic flecks, mica, and hand-applied gofun pigment.

We are excited to offer an incredible group of prints from "The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon," including the most desirable and sought-after designs. Considered one of the greatest Japanese shin-hanga series, these fantastic first edition designs are a wonderful choice for a collector. We've seen images from this series offered elsewhere online for more than $1,500. Don't miss this opportunity to collect a beautiful, first edition print from this timeless and treasured series. 

The Heroine Yugiri - Fantastic image of the ghostly Yugiri from the play "Yugiri Awa no Naruto." The beautiful young courtesan has returned as a spirit to haunt those responsible for her death. Her hair is piled high in an elegant style with many hairpins, tied with a lavender sash that trails alongside her face. She peers sideways over her shoulder, looking suspiciously out of the corners of her eyes, her mouth slightly open. Beautifully drawn with soft, watercolor-like tones and fine bokashi shading. A terrific, eerie and expressive portrait from this series.

Artist - Shima Seien (1892 - 1970)

Image Size - 15 1/8" x 10 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail. Slight toning, a few spots. Please see photos for details.

The Heroine Yugiri by Shima Seien (1892 - 1970)
The Heroine Yugiri by Shima Seien (1892 - 1970)

Auction Rules and guidelines

This Auction Falls Under Our Standard Auction Rules and Guidelines

If you are a new bidder, please read the Rules and Guidelines page before bidding.