One Hundred Aspects of the Moon - Considered his masterwork, Yoshitoshi's series One Hundred Aspects of the Moon features one hundred oban size woodblocks, published between 1885 and 1892. These quiet and reflective prints, beautifully composed and drawn, feature subjects from traditional Japanese and Chinese history and legend, rendered with great sensitivity and emotion. The moon appears in all but a few prints, providing a unifying motif for the series.

Yoshitoshi's innovative designs for the Moon series are often elegantly spare, with simple backgrounds that focus attention on the human figure. He combines the western influences of realism and perspective with qualities from traditional Japanese and Chinese painting, such as the emphasis on calligraphic brushstroke. The figures are carefully drawn with beautiful linework, conveying a real sense of individual character, gesture, and emotion. Special printing techniques such as embossing and burnishing add a sumptuous touch where appropriate, but simple subjects are conveyed in a likewise manner, no less carefully observed.

Prints from the series were released singly or in groups every few months, with the final image completed shortly before Yoshitoshi's death. The series proved tremendously popular, with patrons lining up to purchase the new releases as soon as they became available. Today, One Hundred Aspects of the Moon remains Yoshitoshi's most well-known work, characterized by his artistry, compassion, and sensitivity in portraying the human experience.

As the Moon Shines Serenely - An intriguing image, this Yoshitoshi print depicts Minamoto no Tsunenobu and the leg of a giant demon striding away. While watching the full moon, Tsunenobu heard the sound of clothes being pounded, and he recited a poem. After he finished, a giant demon appeared and responded with a verse of his own. He then marched away, leaving Tsunenobu unharmed. Here, the nobleman looks up in surprise at the hairy leg and swirling clouds, the demon's robe fluttering in the breeze as he walks past a full moon. A striking design with fine bokashi shading in the background and lamp, and burnishing in the black court cap. A wonderful depiction of this magical story from ancient Japan.

Artist - Yoshitoshi (1839 - 1892)

Image Size - 12 7/8" x 8 3/4" + margins as shown

Condition - Excellent color and detail. Slight soiling. Good overall. See photos for details.