The Heroine Koman from Seki

by Yamamura Toyonari (1885 - 1942)

Current Status

The Heroine Koman from Seki by Yamamura Toyonari (1885 - 1942)

Original Yamamura Toyonari (1885 - 1942) Japanese Woodblock Print
The Heroine Koman from Seki

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. 

The Heroine Koman from Seki - Beautiful image of the heroine Koman from Seki in the play "Tanba Yosaku Matsuyo no Komurobushi." The beautiful prostitute and her lover, the packhorse driver Yosaku, have been forced to flee after Yosaku was accused of forcing another driver to commit a theft. Here, the beauty leads a horse by the reins as the pair makes its way into exile. She leans forward with a rather pained expression, walking barefoot through the landscape dotted with clumps of foliage. A moon glows in the sky above as the early evening sky begins to change color. Lovely soft color with fine bokashi shading and a dusting of shimmering mica across the moon and sky.

Artist - Yamamura Toyonari (1885 - 1942)

Image Size - 15 1/4" x 10 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail.. Slight toning, a few tiny spots, smudge in margin. Please see photos for details. Good overall.

The Heroine Koman from Seki by Yamamura Toyonari (1885 - 1942)
The Heroine Koman from Seki by Yamamura Toyonari (1885 - 1942)

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