Publisher - Adachi from a rare series of Edo masterwork designs. Adachi publisher seal in margin or on reverse.

Adachi was one of the most respected publishers of the 20th century. Their woodblocks were printed to the highest standards with excellent color and fine detail. Founded in 1925, Adachi also chose interesting and varied subjects for their prints and was the only publisher of many famous old ukiyo-e images.

Dojo-ji Temple - Gorgeous Utamaro design of a young dancer performing with a folding fan. The popular dance was based on the legend of a female dancer appearing at Dojo-ji Temple during the dedication of a bell and begging to perform. The beauty here wears a violet kimono patterned with cherry blossoms in blue, and her fan features a cherry tree next to a flowing stream, both references to the famous cherry trees surrounding Dojo-ji. A fantastic portrait with beautiful color and detail and a shimmering mica ground. Rarely seen in reprint form.

Woodblock reprints - In the 20th century, artists and publishers collaborated to recreate famous woodblock prints for interested Japanese collectors and Westerners looking for rare designs. New blocks were made, and the prints were painstakingly printed by artisan printers in the same method as the 19th century originals - one block for each color. Woodblock reprints were an opportunity to collect and enjoy a famous design at a small fraction of the price of an original. They still are today.

Artist - Utamaro (1750 - 1806)

Image Size - 15 5/8" x 10 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Please see photos for details. Nice overall.