Series; Chiyoda Outer Palace (Chiyoda no on-omote)
Chiyoda Outer Palace - Following his successful "Chiyoda Inner Palace" series, Chikanobu designed a second triptych series first published in 1897 illustrating the "Chiyoda Outer Palace" (Chiyoda no on-omote), the domain of the shogun and his retainers at Edo Castle, also known as Chiyoda Castle. The men are depicted taking part in sporting and hunting activities, martial arts, annual ceremonies, and traditional rituals. The Outer Palace series was smaller than the Inner Palace series, with 32 triptychs instead of 40, and these designs are seen much less often. Chikanobu's characteristic attention to detail highlights the clothing and accessories worn by the samurai, as well as the indoor and outdoor settings. Many designs include deluxe printing techniques such and embossing and burnishing. The handsome "Chiyoda Outer Palace" series provides a wonderful look at life inside the Shogun's castle prior to the Meiji Restoration.
Noblewoman Traveling by Palanquin, 1895 - Handsome depiction of a Heian era noblewoman traveling through the countryside in an elegant black lacquer palanquin topped with the phoenix symbol of the emperor. The procession has paused near a rushing waterfall as an elderly man and a youth bow respectfully at left. Several noblemen wearing court robes and caps sit beside the conveyance, the two in red carrying bows and arrows. Only the beauty's sumptuous robes can be glimpsed through the parted lavender curtains, her face hidden from view. At right, additional retainers follow behind carrying standards, just beginning to mount the hill, and the colorful autumn foliage of maple trees can be seen below the waterfall. An interesting and attractive design, detailed with extensive burnishing on the palanquin.
Artist - Meiji era artist (not read)
Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28 1/8" + margins as shown
Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight soiling, a few creases at edges. Please see photos for details.
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