Illustration of Sericulture, 1879 - Fantastic Chikanobu triptych of beauties engaged in the process of raising silkworms under the direction of the Meiji Empress. At left women arrive carrying a large basket of mulberry leaves to feed the silkworms. In the center a seated woman carefully plucks the cocoons from branches. At right a beauty chops leaves on a cutting board while another sprinkles them over trays of silkworms. The Empress sits behind them against a curtain patterned with the royal phoenix. Cherry blossoms frame the scene, and purple irises grow along the edge of the garden pond. The title cartouche at upper right is bordered with yellow silk moths. A wonderful look at the traditional art of sericulture, nicely detailed with fine embossing on the white kimono fabric.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 28"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three attached panels, backed with paper. Vertical folds. Slight creasing and soiling, a few stains. Please see photos for details.