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.

Viewing Maple Leaves - Attractive autumn triptych of several elegant young ladies admiring the beautiful red orange foliage of the maple trees. The beauties are gathered along the edge of a serene pond with a rushing waterfall at the right. A beautiful print with the soft colors of the landscape contrasting nicely with the brighter colors and patterns of the sumptuous kimono. Nicely detailed, with fine embossing on the white kimono collars and trim, and soft shading in the background. A lovely design.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 14 1/8" x 28 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with good color and detail as shown. Three separate panels. Slight creasing, a few small marks and paper inclusions. Please see photos for details.