Usu-gumo (Wisps of Clouds), Chapter 19

by Masao Ebina (1913 - 1980)

Current Status

Usu-gumo (Wisps of Clouds), Chapter 19 by Masao Ebina (1913 - 1980)

Original Masao Ebina (1913 - 1980) Japanese Woodblock Print
Usu-gumo (Wisps of Clouds), Chapter 19

Series; The Tale of Genji

The Tale of Genji - Considered by some as the first novel ever written, "The Tale of Genji" is one of the greatest works of Japanese literature. Written by the noblewoman Lady Murasaki Shikubu in the early 11th century during the Heian era, "The Tale of Genji" tells the story of Prince Genji, recounting his life, loves, and the aristocratic world around him in fifty-four chapters. Lady Murasaki's tale of courtly life remains a classic of literature today.

Masao Ebina's Tale of Genji - Noted artist Masao Ebina's elegant series "The Tale of Genji" was released in a limited deluxe edition of only 200 sets in 1953. Each of the fifty-four designs illustrates a chapter of this beloved Japanese novel. As Murasaki’s "Tale of Genji" is a very early work of Japanese literature, Masao created these lovely designs using the Kano School style of painting, with a classic sense of flattened perspectives, simplified figures, and a rich color palette. The perspective is often from above, as if looking down into the rooms of the palace, offering an intimate glimpse of the life inside. His images have a romantic, dreamy quality the captures the subject beautifully. Many designs are accented with shimmering silver or gold mica. These fantastic prints from Masao's Genji series are a wonderful depiction of upper-class life during the Heian era. A great choice for anyone interested in this timeless tale.

Artist - Masao Ebina (1913 - 1980)

Image Size - 8 1/4" x 12 1/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Some prints have slight paper remnants or thinning on reverse at top edge from original publisher mounting. Please see photos for details. Generally in nice condition overall.

Usu-gumo (Wisps of Clouds), Chapter 19 by Masao Ebina (1913 - 1980)
Usu-gumo (Wisps of Clouds), Chapter 19 by Masao Ebina (1913 - 1980)

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.