Ghost with Sword

by Uemura Shoen (1875 - 1949)

Current Status

Ghost with Sword by Uemura Shoen (1875 - 1949)

Uemura Shoen (1875 - 1949) Original Japanese Woodblock Print Set
Ghost with Sword

Series; The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Monzaemon, First Edition, circa 1922 - 1926

The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon - Published between 1922 and 1926, "The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon" illustrates the works of the famous playwright Chikamatsu Manzaemon (1653 - 1725), considered one of Japan's greatest dramatists. He authored more than 100 plays, mainly for the bunraku puppet theater, including historical romances and domestic tragedies, often based on true events. Many of these popular tales were adapted for kabuki theater and are still performed today.

This beautiful series consists of 18 prints by leading artists of the Taisho era, including two important female painters, Shima Seien (1892-1970) and Uemura Shoen (1875-1949).  From mysterious ghosts and poignant beauties to fierce deities and heroic warriors, each illustrates one of Chikamatsu's most memorable characters. Exquisitely carved by Yamagishi Kazue and expertly printed by Nishimura Kumakichi, many include deluxe printing techniques such as embossing, metallic flecks, mica, and hand-applied gofun pigment.

We are excited to offer an incredible group of prints from "The Complete Works of Chikamatsu Manzaemon," including the most desirable and sought-after designs. Considered one of the greatest Japanese shin-hanga series, these fantastic first edition designs are a wonderful choice for a collector. We've seen images from this series offered elsewhere online for more than $1,500. Don't miss this opportunity to collect a beautiful, first edition print from this timeless and treasured series. 

Ghost with Sword - Fantastic image depicting the ghostly figure of a woman as snow falls gently in the night sky. The eerie spirit is shown gripping the sword with which she has just committed suicide. Beautifully detailed with fine bokashi shading in the wintry gray sky and a hand-applied spattering of gofun pigment to indicate the falling snow. The sword handle is highlighted with touches of subtle gold mica. Uemura Shoen was the first female artist to receive Japan's Order of Cultural Merit, and this is one of her most famous designs. A terrific woodblock and one of the most highly sought-after images from this classic shin hanga series.

Artist - Uemura Shoen (1875 - 1949)

Image Size - 15 1/8" x 10 3/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent original color and detail. Slight toning, slight soiling at edges. Please see photos for details.

Ghost with Sword by Uemura Shoen (1875 - 1949)
Ghost with Sword by Uemura Shoen (1875 - 1949)

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