Gekko's Essays - Begun in 1886, "Gekko's Essays" (Zuihitsu) is a wonderful series encompassing a wide range of subjects. Gekko depicts figures from history and mythology, including famous beauties, poets, scholars, and warriors, along with a few supernatural creatures. These handsome designs are rendered in Gekko's distinctive painterly style, with soft washes of color and flowing calligraphic line work, expertly printed by Matsuki Heikichi to capture these qualities. The series was completed by 1887, but woodblocks are found with dates up to 1899, proving the popularity of the designs, which continued to be printed. A great choice to collect or display.

Gods Izanami and Izanagi Standing on the Floating Bridge of Heaven, 1896 - Fascinating print from Japanese mythology of the Goddess Izanami and the God Izanagi, who created the Japanese islands. They are shown standing on the floating bridge in heaven, "Amano Uki-hashi," the bridge between heaven and earth. Clad in simple robes, the pair looks down at a bird flying over the water as a black mist swirls around them. An intriguing subject and a beautifully drawn woodblock, detailed with delicate cloth embossing in the light brown robe.

Artist - Gekko (1859 - 1920)

Image Size - 12 7/8" x 8 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Paper remnants on reverse at corners from previous mounting. Slight toning, a few creases and spots. Please see photos for details.