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.

Title Page for Foundations of Morality and Success - Handsome portrait of the young Arai Hakuseki standing at a garden gate. From humble beginnings, Arai became a successful historian and economist working for the Tokugawa Shogunate during the Edo era. A messenger has arrived to speak to him, waiting just outside the entrance, with two bearers crouching behind a palanquin featuring the three hollyhock leaf crest of the Tokugawa clan. A nicely detailed design.

Artist - Meiji era artist (not read)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 9 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Slight toning and soiling, stains. A few prints have a few holes or slight thinning at edge, repaired. Please see photos for details.