Chiyoda Outer Palace - Following his successful "Chiyoda Inner Palace" series, Chikanobu designed a second triptych series first published in 1897 illustrating the "Chiyoda Outer Palace" (Chiyoda no on-omote), the domain of the shogun and his retainers at Edo Castle, also known as Chiyoda Castle. The men are depicted taking part in sporting and hunting activities, martial arts, annual ceremonies, and traditional rituals. The Outer Palace series was smaller than the Inner Palace series, with 32 triptychs instead of 40, and these designs are seen much less often. Chikanobu's characteristic attention to detail highlights the clothing and accessories worn by the samurai, as well as the indoor and outdoor settings. Many designs include deluxe printing techniques such and embossing and burnishing. The handsome "Chiyoda Outer Palace" series provides a wonderful look at life inside the Shogun's castle prior to the Meiji Restoration.

First Poems of the New Year, 1897 - Beautiful Chikanobu triptych of a scene inside Chiyoda Palace. Monks are gathered along of the edge of the room at low writing desks, thoughtfully composing the first poems of the New Year. At right, a man kneels before an alcove with a tray holding a gourd container and cup of sake. A sword on a stand is draped with purple silk, and the background is decorated with plum trees covered with delicate white blossoms. A lovely design with incredibly fine detail in the clothing and interior furnishings. Includes burnishing on the black lacquer frame of the hibachi at lower right.

Artist - Chikanobu (1838 - 1912)

Image Size - 13 7/8" x 27 1/2"

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Three separate panels, backed with somewhat stiff paper. Slight toning. Some prints have slight soiling, or a few spots or creases. Please see photos for details.