Foundations of Morality and Success - Many artists created designs for this long-running newspaper series depicting both contemporary and historical heroes and heroines. These exemplary individuals were thought to embody values to both inspire and encourage readers. The series was published by Heikichi Matsuki of the Daikokuya publishing firm, a company established in 1763 and known for its high quality woodblock designs. Daikokuya commissioned leading artists of the day, such as Yoshitoshi, Toshikata, Kiyochika, and Kunichika, to create these wonderful designs. Beautifully detailed with fine line work and soft shading, these great Meiji era prints were singled out for recognition by the Japanese government when the series was completed in 1890 for encompassing such uplifting and noble subjects. First edition prints feature a patterned border in a variety of colors, while the 1902 edition has plain paper borders. A fascinating series and a great choice for a collector interested in life in late 19th century Japan.

Hotoke Gozen - Fine illustration of the beauty Hotoke gozen traveling to join the sisters Gio and Gijo, who had become nuns. Both sisters were popular shirabyoshi dancers in Kyoto, and Gio was a special favorite of Taira no Kiyomori. When Kiyomori fell in love with a new dancer named Hotoke gozen, Gio was forced to retire against her will, becoming a nun along with her sister and mother in Saga. Later, Hotoke left Kiyomori to join the sisters and become a nun as well. She is shown arriving in Saga, lifting the robe draped over her head for a better view. She carries a large black hat and a walking stick, and the two nuns, wearing blue clothes over their heads, wait in the garden for her. An attractive design with a nicely detailed landscape setting.

Artist - Yasuji Inoue (1864 - 1889)

Image Size - 12 3/8" x 8"

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Notation on reverse. Please see photos for details.