Chiyoda Inner Palace - First published from 1894 - 1897, Chikanobu's "Chiyoda Inner Palace" (Chiyoda no Ooku) series depicts the lives of women in Edo Castle prior to the Meiji Restoration, when it was home to the shogun and his court. Edo Castle was also known as Chiyoda Castle, and the series includes 40 triptychs. The Inner Palace area housed the shogun's wife and unmarried daughters, his male heir, and many ladies-in-waiting and servants. These lovely triptychs illustrate seasonal activities both inside and outside of the women's private quarters, and a variety of ceremonies, rituals, and pastimes. The beauties are elegantly attired as they go about their daily lives, with wonderful attention and detail given to their sumptuous kimono and obi fabrics. Many designs include deluxe printing techniques such as burnishing, embossing, and mica or metallic pigment. Chikanobu's lovely "Chiyoda Inner Palace" series beautifully captures the world of upper-class women in mid-nineteenth century Japan.

Mt. Fuji on a Breezy Evening - Beautiful triptych of court ladies attired in beautiful kimono viewing Mt. Fuji on a breezy autumn evening, the sacred mountain rising above the mist. One beauty relaxes on a bench at right while the others stroll about the garden. The colorful patterns of their robes contrast beautifully with the soft grays of the autumn grasses and the mountain. A lovely design, detailed with embossing on the white kimono collars and trim, and burnishing on the hair.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14 1/4" x 28 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Fold at corner, wrinkle at edge. Slight toning and soiling, a few creases and spots. Please see photos for details.