Current Status

Bunraku by Nishimura Goun (1877 - 1938)

Original Nishimura Goun (1877 - 1938) Japanese Woodblock Print
Bunraku

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. 

Bunraku - Bold image of a bunraku puppet of a fierce warrior. He grimaces angrily, his red stage makeup and strangely styled hair adding to his fierce appearance. The background is detailed with metallic gold flecks, adding a subtle shimmer, and the portrait is framed by a soft gray border to suggest the brocade trim of a hanging scroll. A great expressive figure.

Artist - Nishimura Goun (1877 - 1938)

Image Size - 15 3/8" x 10 5/8" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Slight toning, a couple light creases at edges, a couple tiny spots. Please see photos for details.

Bunraku by Nishimura Goun (1877 - 1938)
Bunraku by Nishimura Goun (1877 - 1938)

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