Chiyoda Outer Palace - Following his successful "Chiyoda Inner Palace" series, Chikanobu designed a second triptych series first published in 1897 illustrating the "Chiyoda Outer Palace" (Chiyoda no on-omote), the domain of the shogun and his retainers at Edo Castle, also known as Chiyoda Castle. The men are depicted taking part in sporting and hunting activities, martial arts, annual ceremonies, and traditional rituals. The Outer Palace series was smaller than the Inner Palace series, with 32 triptychs instead of 40, and these designs are seen much less often. Chikanobu's characteristic attention to detail highlights the clothing and accessories worn by the samurai, as well as the indoor and outdoor settings. Many designs include deluxe printing techniques such and embossing and burnishing. The handsome "Chiyoda Outer Palace" series provides a wonderful look at life inside the Shogun's castle prior to the Meiji Restoration.

Sanno Festival - Fantastic image of a procession during the Sanno Festival, with Edo Castle in the background, the courtyard filled with parade watchers. In the foreground a huge wooden and fabric elephant is accompanied by musicians playing flute and men wearing hats topped with peony blossoms. The elephant was one of the highlights of the Sanno Festival parade and was moved by men walking in its legs. Banners depicting a dragon and winged tigers flutter overhead, and a colorful fringed cloth with a dragon design is draped over the elephant. A bold and graphic design and a rare Chikanobu triptych. A great choice for a collector.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with paper. Slight toning. Please see photos for details.