Needlework - Fantastic Utamaro triptych of beauties doing needlework with two children playing at their feet. At left, a young woman checks the quality of a bolt of silk, her face visible through the sheer dotted fabric. A little boy plays at her knee, waving a fan. A sewing chest, ruler, and pair of scissors rest nearby, ready for use. At right, two beauties stretch out a length of red tied-dyed fabric, while a boy plays on the floor, teasing a cat with its reflection in a hand mirror, the cat arching its back in defense. A lovely design with beautiful detail and soft color, with delicate embossing in the tie-dyed cloth. Complete triptych reprints of this fine Utamaro subject are rare. A wonderful scene from daily life.

Woodblock reprints - In the 20th century, artists and publishers collaborated to recreate famous woodblock prints for interested Japanese collectors and Westerners looking for rare designs. New blocks were made, and the prints were painstakingly printed by artisan printers in the same method as the 19th century originals - one block for each color. Woodblock reprints were an opportunity to collect and enjoy a famous design at a small fraction of the price of an original. They still are today.

Artist - Utamaro (1750 - 1806)

Image Size - 21 1/2" x 10 3/4"

Condition - This triptych with excellent color and detail. Three separate panels. Please see photos for details.